Summary
Érick Valencia Salazar, co-founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, pleaded guilty to drug trafficking in the United States. He was arrested in 2022, extradited in 2025, and faces a minimum sentence of 10 years. The cartel is known for its violent operations in Mexico and spreading drugs in the US.
Key Facts
- Érick Valencia Salazar co-founded the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
- He was arrested in Mexico in 2012, released, and re-arrested in 2022.
- Salazar was extradited to the United States in 2025 for trial.
- He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 5kg or more of cocaine.
- Sentencing is set for 31 July with a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison.
- The cartel is recognized for its use of violence in Mexico.
- President Trump designated the cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation.
- The cartel gained attention after the death of its leader, "El Mencho."
