Previously Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Violent Crime Spree

ALBUQUERQUE – A previously convicted felon pleaded guilty in federal court to charges arising from a violent crime spree over two months in 2021. Procopio Montoya Atkinson, 26, pleaded guilty in federal court to interference with commerce by robbery, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, assault upon a federal officer involving use of a deadly weapon, carjacking and being a felon in possession a firearm and ammunition.

According to court documents, on November 12, 2021, Atkinson robbed the Dollar General store at 201 Montano Rd NW. When the cashier opened the register, Atkinson tried to take money from the drawer, but the cashier closed the register drawer. Atkinson pulled out a firearm, discharged it into the ceiling, and demanded money. Another employee opened the register drawer and Atkinson took approximately $192.

On December 17, 2021, Atkinson forcibly assaulted a Task Force Officer with the United States Marshal Service who was attempting to arrest Atkinson on outstanding warrants. Atkinson saw the task force officer stopped on the side of a road and pointed a firearm at him as he passed by.

On December 20, 2021, Atkinson was being pursued by Belen police when he committed a carjacking. Atkinson ran out of gas and approached an occupied truck, pointed a firearm at the driver and told him to get out of the truck. During an ensuing struggle, Atkinson shot the driver. Atkinson got into the truck and tried to drive away but was blocked in by police.

In his plea agreement, Atkinson admitted that he knew that he was convicted of several felony offenses and therefore he could not legally possess a firearm or ammunition.

The Court ordered that Atkinson remain in detention pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Atkinson faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison.

There is no parole in the federal system.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the United States Marshal Service, Belen Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, Albuquerque Police Department, Rio Rancho Police Department and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Trembley is prosecuting the case.

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