Overview
- Marco Antonio López-Guerrero, 34, was extradited from Mexico on Oct. 24 and is in federal custody in the Southern District of California.
- He pleaded not guilty at an Oct. 27 initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Karen S. Crawford, and a detention order followed an Oct. 30 hearing.
- A July 2020 indictment charges conspiracy to import and distribute methamphetamine, attempted export of defense articles without a license, and smuggling firearms and ammunition.
- Court filings allege the network used minors and young women at pedestrian ports of entry and an ultralight aircraft for cross‑border shipments, including a short‑barrel AR‑15 and over 150 rounds.
- Authorities cite seizures exceeding 180 kg of methamphetamine, 19 kg of fentanyl, and 2 kg of heroin, with DEA, HSI, CBP and other agencies contributing under a Homeland Security Task Force; media reports differ on alleged cartel ties.