Memphis, Tennessee, January 29, 2026
Roberto Juan Morales, a 49-year-old Mexican national living illegally in the U.S., has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for his role in an armed robbery at a Memphis grocery store. During the March robbery, Morales threatened a clerk with an AR-style rifle and fired a shot into the floor. This case illustrates the serious implications of crime and the effectiveness of law enforcement collaboration in urban safety.
Memphis, Tennessee – Illegal Alien Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Discharging Firearm During Business Robbery
Memphis, Tennessee – In a case that underscores the ongoing challenge of crime in urban areas, Roberto Juan Morales, a 49-year-old Mexican national residing illegally in the United States, has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison. Morales was involved in a robbery at the Supermercado Guatemala store on Winchester Road in March 2025, where he brandished an AR-style rifle and threatened the store clerk while discharging a round into the floor. This incident raises important discussions about public safety and enforcement of immigration laws in local communities.
Morales’s arrest and subsequent sentencing serve to highlight the collaborative efforts of local and federal authorities. The case was investigated by the FBI and the Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force, showcasing the importance of unity among agencies in addressing violent crime in neighborhoods. Prosecutors indicated that strong legal actions against individuals, especially those committing acts of violence, contribute to deterring similar criminal behaviors and enhancing community safety.
Key Details of the Case
- Defendant: Roberto Juan Morales, 49, Mexican national residing illegally in the U.S.
- Incident: March 2025 robbery at Supermercado Guatemala store, Memphis, Tennessee.
- Charges: Robbery of a business, discharging a firearm during and in relation to the robbery, and being an illegal alien in possession of ammunition.
- Plea: Guilty in September 2025.
- Sentence: 132 months (11 years) in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release; no parole in the federal system.
- Investigation: FBI and Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force.
- Prosecution: Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Musselwhite.
Background Context
This case underlines the continuous efforts of federal authorities to combat crimes committed by individuals without legal immigration status. By focusing on those who pose a threat to public safety, law enforcement agencies aim to foster a sense of security within communities. The emphasis on prosecutions for violent crimes not only holds offenders accountable but also serves as a deterrent to potential criminal activities, encouraging lawful behavior.
Understanding the Broader Implications
Enforcement of immigration laws in conjunction with the prosecution of violent crimes emphasizes the importance of legal integrity in ensuring community safety. The implications of such collaboration between federal and local authorities foster an environment where entrepreneurial endeavors can thrive in a secure atmosphere. To cultivate business growth in communities like Memphis, it is vital to adopt measures that prioritize both public safety and economic development.
Community Involvement in Law Enforcement
The synergy between law enforcement and the community is paramount in addressing crime effectively. Initiatives like the Safe Streets Task Force reflect the support of citizens working together with police agencies to create safe living and working conditions. Such partnerships can lead to advancements in Memphis’s economy by creating a more favorable environment for local businesses to flourish.
Conclusion
Roberto Juan Morales’s conviction serves as a critical reminder of the importance of combating crime and maintaining public safety in order to foster a thriving economic landscape in Memphis. As local entrepreneurs and businesses continue to drive economic growth, a strong commitment to law enforcement and community cooperation will help ensure a secure environment for future investment and job creation. Residents are encouraged to remain engaged and support local businesses, as community involvement is key to shaping a positive future for Memphis’s economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was Roberto Juan Morales convicted of?
Roberto Juan Morales was convicted of robbery of a business, discharging a firearm during and in relation to the robbery, and being an illegal alien in possession of ammunition.
When did the robbery occur?
The robbery occurred in March 2025 at the Supermercado Guatemala store on Winchester Road in Memphis, Tennessee.
What was the sentence handed down to Morales?
Morales was sentenced to 132 months (11 years) in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
Which agencies investigated the case?
The FBI and the Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case.
Who prosecuted the case?
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Musselwhite on behalf of the United States.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Roberto Juan Morales, 49, Mexican national residing illegally in the U.S. |
| Incident | March 2025 robbery at Supermercado Guatemala store, Memphis, Tennessee. |
| Charges | Robbery of a business, discharging a firearm during and in relation to the robbery, and being an illegal alien in possession of ammunition. |
| Plea | Guilty in September 2025. |
| Sentence | 132 months (11 years) in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release; no parole in the federal system. |
| Investigation | FBI and Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force. |
| Prosecution | Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Musselwhite. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Investigation Launched After Ole Miss Football Player Shot in Cordova
Memphis College Football Playoff Rankings: Georgia and Oregon Rise
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
