This archive report was first published on 4 January 2020.
On January 4, 2020, the New York Times reported that Larry Mitchell Hopkins, leader of the right-wing militia United Constitutional Patriots, pleaded guilty to a federal gun charge in New Mexico.
According to the Justice Department, Hopkins, 70, of Flora Vista, N.M., admitted to being in possession of several firearms and various caliber ammunition in November 2017, despite being a felon. He faces up to 10 years in prison.
As reported by the New York Times, Hopkins had previously been convicted in at least three states of multiple crimes, including illegal weapon possession and impersonating a peace officer in 2006.
“Felons should never possess dangerous firearms or illegally pose as law enforcement officials, and I am pleased that this individual is being held accountable,” said Hector Balderas, the attorney general for New Mexico.
Hopkins's lawyer, Kelly O'Connell, stated that his client wanted a plea deal due to health concerns, including heart problems, diabetes, and other ailments.
At the time of Hopkins's arrest in April 2019, there was speculation that it could lead to a deep investigation of his activities and those of the militia. However, the United States Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico declined to comment on whether it was looking into the organization or if the group was still active in the region.
