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2d ago

Sinaloa Cartel Co‑Founder ‘El Mayo’ Zambada Pleads Guilty in U.S., Agrees to $15 Billion Forfeiture

Sentencing is set for Jan. 13, 2026 after a plea that followed prosecutors’ decision to forgo the death penalty.

A newspaper seller arranges newspapers reporting the El Paso, Texas, U.S., arrest of Mexican drug lord Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, "El Chapo" Guzman's son, in Mexico City, Mexico July 26, 2024. REUTERS/Gustavo Graf/File Photo
El Mayo
Accused Mexican former drug lord Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada appears in Brooklyn federal court, New York, U.S, October 18, 2024, in this courtroom sketch. REUTERS/Jane Rosenberg/File Photo
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Overview

  • Zambada admitted to racketeering conspiracy and leading a continuing criminal enterprise that trafficked massive quantities of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and fentanyl.
  • He faces a mandatory life sentence, with U.S. District Judge Brian Cogan scheduling sentencing for Jan. 13, 2026 in Brooklyn.
  • The plea resolves major indictments consolidated in the Eastern District of New York, including a case transferred from the Western District of Texas, and includes a $15 billion forfeiture.
  • In court, Zambada apologized and acknowledged the cartel’s use of violence and systemic bribery of police, military officials and politicians.
  • His attorney says the agreement involves no cooperation, as disputes continue over his July 2024 capture with Joaquín Guzmán López at a New Mexico airstrip.