In a significant development, the son of a notorious Mexican drug cartel leader has been found guilty of serious charges related to drug trafficking and violence. Rubén Oseguera, also known as “El Menchito,” was convicted by a federal jury in Washington, D.C. on charges of conspiring to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine for U.S. importation, as well as using a firearm in a drug conspiracy.
Oseguera, who served as the second-in-command of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, was extradited to the U.S. in February 2020. The jury deliberated for several hours over two days before reaching a verdict. Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed gratitude to Mexican law enforcement for their cooperation in holding cartel leaders accountable.
As the son of fugitive cartel boss Nemesio Oseguera, Oseguera faces a maximum sentence of life in prison and a mandatory minimum of 40 years. The U.S. government has offered a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest of his father, known as “El Mencho.”
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence linking Oseguera to violent acts, including the downing of a Mexican military helicopter in 2015 using a rocket-propelled grenade. Oseguera allegedly ordered the attack to evade capture, resulting in the deaths of at least nine individuals on board.
Prosecutors also highlighted Oseguera's involvement in ordering numerous killings and engaging in drug trafficking activities. Witnesses testified to his direct involvement in drug trafficking operations, and prosecutors presented coded messages exchanged between Oseguera and other cartel members.
While the defense attempted to challenge the credibility of witnesses and the evidence presented, prosecutors argued that Oseguera played a key role in maintaining the cartel's power and drug trafficking operations, including in the U.S.
The conviction of Oseguera adds to the list of high-ranking cartel leaders brought to justice in U.S. courts, signaling a significant blow to the operations of the Jalisco New Generation cartel.
