Former two-time IBF featherweight champion Robert Guerrero (31-1-1, 18 KO) was released on his own recognizance by the New York State Supreme Court for Queens County hours after he was arrested Thursday at JFK Airport for possessing a firearm.
Before checking his luggage for an 8:10 a.m. ET flight to Las Vegas Thursday, Guerrero, according to a joint statement issued by Golden Boy Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and Team Guerrero, told authorities that he possessed an unloaded Smith & Wesson handgun locked inside of a safe box. After hearing the “pertinent facts of the case” at an arraignment, the statement reads, the court released Guerrero, who celebrated his 30th birthday Wednesday.
Guerrero’s next hearing won’t occur until after his May 4 bout vs. eight-division champion Floyd Mayweather, Jr. (43-0, 26 KO). Mayweather’s WBC welterweight belt and the vacant The Ring title are at stake.
While the joint statement adds that Guerrero had no ammunition and was within his legal right to possess the handgun in question in California, where he resides, Queens District Attorney Richard A. Brown offered a stern warning to out-of-town gun owners.
“I hope that Mr. Guerrero fights better than he thinks,” Brown said in a statement. “For anyone who hasn’t gotten the message, let me be crystal clear. You cannot bring an unlicensed weapon—loaded or unloaded—into this county or this city. And if you do, you will be arrested and face felony charges.”
