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HONDO, TX — In the early hours of March 3, 2024, a routine traffic stop on US 90 by a Hondo Police Department patrol officer escalated into a significant seizure of drugs, cash, and an illegally modified weapon. Justin Martinez Hill Jr from Uvalde was arrested following the discovery.

Details of the Incident

The vehicle, traveling through Hondo from San Antonio, was initially stopped for a standard traffic violation. During the stop, the officer conducted a search based on probable cause, which uncovered marijuana, a substantial amount of U.S. currency, and a handgun equipped with a drum magazine.

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Illegal Firearm Modification

Further inspection revealed that the handgun had been modified with a “Glock Switch,” an illegal alteration that converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic weapon. This modification classified the firearm as a machine gun under federal law, leading to additional charges against Hill for possession of a prohibited weapon.

Legal Ramifications and Community Safety

The arrest of Hill underscores ongoing concerns about illegal firearm modifications that significantly enhance the firepower of weapons on the streets. Such modifications not only pose severe risks to public safety but also complicate the challenges law enforcement faces in managing gun violence.

The Hondo Police Department has reiterated its commitment to removing illegal firearms from the community and ensuring the safety of its residents. The incident has also highlighted the importance of vigilance and thoroughness during routine traffic stops, which can sometimes reveal more serious criminal activities.

As the case progresses, it will serve as a reminder of the dangers posed by illegal weapon modifications and the importance of enforcing laws designed to keep such weapons off the streets. Hill is currently being held pending further legal proceedings, and the investigation is ongoing.

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