Texas City man sentenced for illegally possessing machine gun

HOUSTON - A 32-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison for possessing and transferring an illegal machine gun, announced Acting U.S. Attorney John G.E. Marck.

Jaleel Filer pleaded guilty March 5, 2026.

U.S. District Judge Charles R. Eskridge has now ordered Filer to serve 37 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.

The investigation began in January 2023 when law enforcement identified Filer's involvement in the sale of firearms and machine gun conversion devices, commonly known as "switches." A machine gun conversion device converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic machine gun and is illegal to possess.

Over the next five months, authorities conducted multiple undercover purchases from Filer, including firearms and MCDs.

During one purchase Jan. 6, Filer sold two firearms, including one equipped with a machine gun conversion device installed for approximately $2,200. The firearm functioned as a machine gun. He claimed he could also sell MCDs in the future for $100 each.

During the final deal, Filer arranged for the sale of more than 50 MCDs that were subsequently interdicted by law enforcement.

Previously released on bond, Filer was taken into custody following the sentencing where he will remain pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Smith prosecuted the case.