A Fort Myers woman is facing 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm as a convicted felon on Thursday.
The Department of Justice said Melina Ariel Maldonado, 28, faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison.
According to court documents, on Sept. 4, 2024, the Lee County Sheriff's Office pulled Maldonado over. She reportedly had active felony arrest warrants at the time.
Deputies said they found a loaded pistol under Maldonado's seat, and she told deputies the pistol belonged to her.
Maldonado has previously been convicted of armed robbery and possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, per court documents.
As a convicted felon, Maldonado is not allowed to carry a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
A sentencing date has not been set at this time.
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