Co-founder of Jalisco New Generation Cartel Pleads Guilty in US Court
Érick Valencia Salazar, known as 'El 85' and a co-founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the United States. Extradited from Mexico in February 2025 alongside 28 other alleged drug lords, Valencia admitted to one count of trafficking 5kg or more of cocaine. The Drug Enforcement Administration described him as instrumental in building CJNG into a violent organization that floods the US with drugs. His sentencing is scheduled for July 31, carrying a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison. This legal development occurs amidst heightened tensions between the US and Mexico regarding cartel violence, following the recent death of CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes ('El Mencho') and the Trump administration's designation of CJNG as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation.
Wire timeline
Co-founder of Jalisco New Generation Cartel Pleads Guilty in US Court
Érick Valencia Salazar, known as 'El 85' and a co-founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the United States. Extradited from Mexico in February 2025 alongside 28 other alleged drug lords, Valencia admitted to one count of trafficking 5kg or more of cocaine. The Drug Enforcement Administration described him as instrumental in building CJNG into a violent organization that floods the US with drugs. His sentencing is scheduled for July 31, carrying a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison. This legal development occurs amidst heightened tensions between the US and Mexico regarding cartel violence, following the recent death of CJNG leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes ('El Mencho') and the Trump administration's designation of CJNG as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation.
BBC News