Shows
Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 126: The What and Why of the El Chapo Family Members Entering the USOn May 14, seventeen members of El Chapo's family crossed from Tijuana to San Diego where they were met and whisked away by U.S. agents.
In this Episode, I discuss this event, including the identities of some of the family members. In addition, I look at the events that preceded this event, including plea negotiations by Ovidio and Joaquin, a potential split within Los Chapitos, and the reaction of the Mexican government.
Finally, I discuss the role these events might have played in the apparent alliance between Los Chapitos and CJNG and what it all m...2025-05-2541 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 125: Oil Smuggling for the Cartels ... in Utah?In this Mother's Day episode, I first discuss pea agreement between the U.S. government and Ovidio Guzman and what it really means.
Next, I look at the arrest of a husband and wife from Sandy, Utah, who have been indicted on charges of smuggling and selling oil from Mexico for the benefit of Mexican cartels.
Finally, I address some shameful comments from retired DEA agent Hector Berrellez.
2025-05-1228 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 124: The Civil Case of Camarena v. Caro-QuinteroIn this Episode, I dissect the Complaint in the recently filed federal litigation by the Camarena family against Rafael Caro-Quintero, Ernesto Fonseca, Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, and the Sinaloa Cartel.
In addition to discussing the causes of action and certain jurisdictional elements, I look at the factual allegations in the Complaint to look at several issues relating to the Camarena case. Specifically, I look at the nature of the so-called Guadalajara Cartel, the motives for the abduction of Agent Camarena, and some unknown or disputed facts relating to Agent Camarena's abduction.
2025-04-2356 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 123: Inside the Fight for Control of CDSIt has been around 9 months since El Mayo and Joaquin Guzman were flown to the United States and arrested and it's been almost exactly 7 months since the fighting between Los Chapitos and La Mayiza broke out in Culiacan.
In this Episode, I look at the prevailing theories on the rendition of El Mayo, the structure of CDS, and the key questions asked when the violence started.
I then discuss some recent events, including actions by the followers of Chapo Isidro.
Finally, I identify the biggest winners and losers thus far in the fight for...2025-04-0944 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 122: The Sentencing of El Menchito and the Impact of Trump's Tariff Threats on Mexico's Fight Against the CartelsIn this Episode, I first discuss some recent news events, including the dismantling of a huge methamphetamine laboratory in Zacatecas,
I then look at the sentencing of El Menchito, the son of CJNG leader El Mencho in a D.C. federal court.
Finally, I discuss some recent reports and articles discussing the ways the Scheinbaum administration is changing the Mexican government's actions against the cartels and the impact on those changes resulting from the tariff threats by the Trump administration.
2025-04-0143 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 121: Extraditions, Extraditions, and More ExtraditionsIn this Episode, I look at the recent "extradition" of 29 narcos from Mexico to the United States and identify the most prominent figures who were extradited and the significance of their extraditions.
In particular, I discuss the extradition of Rafael Caro Quintero, and I discuss whether he will face charges relating to kidnapping, interrogation, and murder of Agent Kiki Camarena. I also give my opinion on the person to blame if Caro does not face those charges.
Finally, I provide my conjecture about the motivations of the Mexican government and suggest that President Scheinbaum did...2025-03-0547 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 120: Are the Reports of the Demise of CDS Premature?As Los Chapitos continue to suffer from the arrest and capture of more leaders, and given the reports of Ivan's narrow escapes, many pundits have proclaimed the demise of the Sinaloa Cartel.
In this Episode, I look at the arrests of key leaders within Los Chapitos and discuss the status of Los Chapitos today. I then examine the repercussions of both the disruption in CDS and the possible collapse of Los Chapitos and show how those effects may be felt in all of Latin America, as well as other places in the world. Finally, I hypothesize about...2025-02-2441 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 119: Remembering Enrique "Kiki" CamarenaForty years ago today, DEA Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena was abducted outside the American consulate in Guadalajara. Agent Camarena was subsequently interrogated, brutally tortured, and murdered.
In this Episode, with my guest Steve Duncan, we discuss Agent Camarena's legacy and impact, the efforts of the Enrique S. Camarena Foundation to educate the nation's youth on the dangers of drugs, and we discuss the possibility of more closure coming for the family and friends of Agent Camarena.
2025-02-0747 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 118: Plea Negotiations, Plea Negotiations, and More Plea NegotiationsIn this Episode, in addition to touching on some recent news, I discuss the plethora of reports asserting that many of the main cartel figures in custody in the U.S. are engaged in plea negotiations with federal prosecutors.
Specifically, I discuss the nature and prevalence of plea agreements in the federal criminal justice system. Then I look at the specific reports of plea discussions with Ovidio Guzman, Joaquin Guzman, and El Mayo, including what each may offer to prosecutors and possible impediments to plea agreements.
Finally, I consider the value and wisdom of some of...2025-02-0432 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 117: A Conversation with James KuykendallIn this Episode, I discuss the Camarena case with James Kuykendall. Significantly, in addition to discussing some little-known facts about the case, Mr. Kuykendall directly addresses many claims, rumors, and inuendo, including many raised by Hector Berrellez and others in The Last Narc.
2025-01-071h 35Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 116: The Re-Arrest of El Min Licenciado and America's Failed PolicyIn this Episode I discuss the recent re-arrest of El Mini Licenciado who had been given an early release from federal custody as a reward for information on drug traffickers and the Sinaloa Cartel and, most importantly, his testimony against El Chapo.
I also examine the long-standing policy of the US and the DOJ to "reward" narco traffickers who provide information deemed valuable to the government. Specifically, I consider whether this policy has yielded results sufficient to justify its costs.
2024-12-3127 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 115: Was Joaquin's Betrayal of El Mayo Part of a Long-Term Plan by El Chapo?In this Episode, I first discuss the widespread costs in Culiacan as a result of the CDS civil war, including an estimated $1 billion lost by Culiacan-area business.
Next, I discuss reports that the plan for Joaquin to betray El Mayo and arrange his rendition to the U.S. was the result of El Chapo's long held desire for his sons to turn themselves in for better deals and to secure better lives. I also look into the reports that those concerns were heightened with the 2023 arrest of Ovidio.
Finally, I address reports of an alliance be...2024-12-1544 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 114: Leo Silva and the Los Zetas Reign of TerrorRetired DEA Agent Leo Silva has written a fascinating book titled "Reign of Terror" chronicling the rise and fall of Los Zetas.
In this Episode, Leo and I discuss his book, his career in the DEA, and his inside view of the ascendence of Los Zetas and the factors that lead to their demise. During our discussion, Leo shares personal insights revealing the enormous cost of the fight to bring down Los Zetas -- on both sides of the border.
2024-11-2152 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 113: What Does the US Election Mean for Mexico and Mexico's Cartels?One week after the election of Donald Trump, we are getting an idea of some of the policies his administration will adopt that likely will affect the US's relationship with Mexico and both countries' concerns with the cartels and drug trafficking.
In this Episode, I assess some of these potential policies of the next Trump administration and the emerging policies of the Scheinbaum administration. Specifically, I look at border policies in general, the potential designation of cartels as terrorist groups, economic policies, mass deportations, and a variety of political issues in Mexico.
2024-11-1338 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 112: The Extraordinary Case of El AzulJuan Jose Esparragoza Moreno, aka El Azul, may not be the most known of the drug traffickers in Mexico's cartel history but he had one of the most interesting careers, which I discuss in this Episode.
Born in the same town as El Chapo, El Azul worked for the DFS, is credited as being a leader in the so-called Guadalajara Cartel, and was jailed for his involvement in the murder of Agent Kiki Camarena.
After his release from jail, El Azul worked in the Juarez Cartel alongside Amado Carrillo Fuentes, was said to be a...2024-11-0337 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 111: The CDS Civil War -- Scheinbaum's First Month in Office and Rumors of an Unexpected AllianceIn this Episode, I update the ongoing battle within the CDS between Los Chapitos and La Mayiza, now under the control of Mayito Flaco by reference to three issues.
First, I look at the difficult circumstances encountered by President Scheinbaum in her first month in office.
Second, I examine the stark numbers in terms of killed, injured, and missing in Sinaloa and how Mexico's military is or may be addressing the violence.
Finally, I discuss various reports that a new alliance has formed or soon may be formed -- an alliance between Los...2024-10-3041 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 110: The Trial of El MenchitoIn this Episode, I re-cap the recent news and events in the ongoing war between Los Chapitos and MZ in Culiacan.
Then I discuss the trial of El Menchito who was convicted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia this week. In particular, I examine the witnesses against El Menchito, including cooperating witnesses with both reasons to testify for the government and, in several cases, deep opposition to the CJNG and El Mencho.
Finally, I draw parallels between El Menchito's trial and the trials of Ruben Zuno Arce, and I express m...2024-09-2249 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 109: Did Mayito Flaco Declare War on Los Chapitos?In this news report Episode, we discuss the violent confrontations between "armed civilians" rocking Culiacan since early morning.
Most significantly, we look at the many reports of audio recordings confirming that Ismael Zambada Sicairos ("Mayito Flaco"), the presumed leader of the Mayo Zambada faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, has authorized or instructed his hitmen to attack Los Chapitos in Culiacan.
We also consider whether this is the "war" some expected after Joaquin Guzman apparently duped El Mayo into a meeting and abducted him, eventually flying El Mayo to the US and into the custody of t...2024-09-1015 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 108: What Happened in Culiacan and the El Mayo Case Keeps Getting "Curiouser and Curiouser"In this Labor Day edition of the podcast, I look at three interesting developments in the last few days. First, I discuss Osiel Cardenas Guillen's release from federal prison. Specifically, I discuss the fact that he was placed in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the reports that he will be turned over to Mexican authorities on Monday.
Second, I look into reports that Jorge Humberto Figueroa Benitez (El 27 or El Perris), who, according to some, replaced El Nini, was the one who physically tied up El Mayo and put him in the back of t...2024-09-0220 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 107: Who Really are Government Witnesses Jorge Godoy and Rene Lopez Romero?The government's case in the Zuno II trial rested largely on the testimony of two former Jalisco State Police officers, Jorge Godoy and Rene Lopez Romero. In this Episode, I look into the backgrounds of these two men and specifically discuss their admissions to having been employed by Ernesto Fonseca and witnesses to and participants in various crimes including the torture and murder of American citizens. Moreover, Lopez even claimed to have participated in the abduction of Agent Camarena and nevertheless received money and immunity for his testimony.
I also look at the highly dubious timing of stat...2024-08-2749 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 106: Neither the Alleged Conspiracy Meetings nor the Witnesses are CredibleIn the two Zuno trials, prosecution witness testified to several alleged conspiracy meetings to discuss and plan the abduction of Agent Camarena. In this episode, we assess the credibility of those allegations and of the witnesses themselves.
Specifically, we discuss the number of alleged meetings (as many as 10 over 3-4 months), the number of people at the alleged meetings (more than 70), the high-profile people alleged to have been at some of the meetings, the inconsistencies between the testimony regarding the alleged meetings between Zuno I and Zuno, and, finally, the internal inconsistencies within the Zuno II testimony of...2024-08-2050 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 105: The Camarena Abduction: Reaching Some ConclusionsToday's Episode concludes my three-part analysis of the abduction of Agent Camarena from outside the America consulate.
Specifically, in this Episode I reach some conclusions regarding the abduction including conclusions regarding the participation and statements of Rene Lopez Romero, the veracity of Agent Berrellez's discussions on the abduction, and the participation of Caro Quintero. Finally, I discuss the near perfect timing of the abductors and the questions presented by that timing.
2024-08-1242 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 103: The El Mayo Arrest: Reports, Rumors, and AnalysisAgain this week, the arrests of El Mayo and Joaquin Guzman Lopez have dominated the cartel-related conversation. In this Episode, I look at the latest reports and rumors regarding the events that lead to the plane carrying El Mayo and Joaquin landing in New Mexico and the two men being taken into custody.
I then discuss the possible power vacuum created by El Mayo's arrest and refer to articles from two experts on the issue.
Finally, I review letters from Senator Chuck Grassley written to several officials raising the specter of inter-agency rivalry that led to...2024-08-0544 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 103: El Mayo Arrested: What Happened and What It MeansThe HUGE news this week was the arrest of Ismael Zambada (El Mayo), a leader and founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, and Joaquin Guzman Lopez, son of El Chapo and one of Los Chapitos.
In this Episode, I discuss the known facts about the arrests and consider the primary theories on how the arrests occurred. I also look at what the arrests could mean for the stability of the CDS, and the potential for power grabs by CJNG and other cartels.
Finally, I examine the abduction of Dr. Humberto Alvarez Machain from Mexico, U.S. Sup...2024-07-281h 00Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 102: The Camarena Kidnapping: The Inconsistent and Irreconcilable "Witnesses"Many of the alleged witnesses to the abduction of Agent Camarena case provide narratives of the abduction that are both inconsistent over time and irreconcilable with each other.
In this Episode, I explore these inconsistencies focusing in particular on the names of the alleged participants, descriptions of the abduction location, and the some of the alleged details about the abduction, including the alleged participation of a consulate employee who, one alleged witness claims, identified Agent Camarena to his abductors.
2024-07-2245 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 101: The Camarena Kidnapping: The Timeframes That Don't Add UpIn this Episode, I examine the abduction of Agent Camarena, focusing particularly on the timeline of events surrounding the abduction.
Initially, I discuss the known facts that present a narrow, and very specific, time frame when the abduction could have occurred.
Next, I look at the statements of alleged witnesses and others regarding the timeline for the abduction. This analysis demonstrates that none of these statements appear to fit within the required timeframe, calling into question the veracity and credibility of these sources.
2024-07-1538 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 100: Back to Where We Started: The Conundrum that is the Camarena CaseIn this special Episode, my 100th, I reflect back on to the Camarena case and look forward to efforts to clear the record of false narratives and blatant misrepresentations about the case.
Specifically, in this Episode, I discuss some of the reasons why the Camarena case is highly personal to me. I also reflect on the need to resolve some unanswered issues surrounding the case in order to honor the legacy of Agent Camarena and to respect the legacy of those who worked with Agent Camarena, those who searched for him, and those who sought to bring...2024-07-0658 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 99: A Half Year News RecapIn this abbreviated, Father's Day Episode, I discuss a few of the topics focused on in the last few months and add new information or perspectives.
Specifically, I look at the "final" results from the Mexican elections and discuss the near super majority of the MORENA party in Mexico's Congress. I also examine the continuing responses by the Mexican markets to MORENA's dominance in the elections.
I also discuss institutional reforms proposed by AMLO, which President-elect Sheinbaum seems to support.
I also consider recent data indicating that 2023 was the first year in many t...2024-06-1627 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 98: The Mexican Elections: What Happened and What Does It Mean?Mexico's national elections on June2 were historic in many respects. Most significantly is that Mexico elected its first woman, and first Jewish, President, and did so by an unprecedented margin.
In this Episode, I discuss the election and look toward Mexico's future by discussing the reaction of the Mexican markets to Mrs. Scheinbaum's election and evaluating how her presidency could impact Mexico's relationship with the United States. I also consider how outgoing President Lopez Obrador could influence Mexican policies even after he leaves office.
Finally, I try to distill the myriad factors to assess potential cha...2024-06-0843 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 97: Mexico's Elections -- What's Really at Stake?On June 2, Medico is likely to elect the first female President in a North American country. In addition to electing a President, the elections will fill the 628 seats of the bicameral federal Congress, eight state governorships, the Mexico City mayorship, and more than 20,000 local offices.
In this Episode, I consider the Mexican elections by looking at the two primary candidates for the presidency and their positions on key issues. I also look the violence in the lead up to the elections, and the role of the cartels in the electoral process. Finally, I address AMLO's role as th...2024-06-0335 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 96: Maxican Money Laundering in the United States -- Analysis and Proposals for ReformThe efforts of Mexican cartels to launder the hundreds of millions of dollars in illicit profits in the U.S. have been a focus of law enforcement and regulators on both sides of the border. In this Episode, I discuss an analysis of those laundering efforts published in the Journal of Illicit Economies and Development.
The article, among other topics, details incidents of corruption at the highest levels of the Mexican government. The article also discusses the money laundering statutes in the United States.
The article provides a case study of money laundering by Los Zeta...2024-05-2033 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 95: The DEA's National Drug Threat Assessment 2024Last week, the DEA presented its annual National Drug Threat Assessment (NDTA). In this Episode, I discuss some of the more significant observations in the NDTA.
Specifically, I look at the NDTA's description of the Sinaloa and Jalisco Cartels, including their leadership structures, drug trafficking patterns, international presences, and other illegal activities.
I also present the NDTA's findings on the illegal drug threats in the United States, identified by seizures and overdose deaths.
2024-05-1352 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 94: Mexican Cartels and the Use of Social MediaThe use of social media has become an integral part of the operation of Mexican cartels and has expanded their reach and influence in new and profound ways.
In this Episode, I look at the narrative themes in the cartel's social media presence, as well at the specific operational strategies and objectives fueled by social media.
I also examine the Combating Cartels on Social Media Act of 2023, a bill currently pending in Congress.
Finally, I discuss current trends in cartels' social media use, and the propaganda "boosts" often unintentionally provided to cartels by new...2024-05-0546 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 93: The Arrest of El Mencho's (Other) BrotherThis last week, news reports highlighted the arrest of Abraham Oseguera Cervantes (alias "Don Rondo"), the older brother of CJNG leader El Mencho.
In this Episode, I discuss not only Don Rondo's arrest but also the arrest of other relatives of El Mencho, including another brother (El Tony Montana), his son, daughter, and wife.
Specifically, I discuss the often overly dramatic and misleading press reports surrounding these arrests and I examine the utility of this approach, one that has been used by the U.S. and Mexican governments, as well as those in other Latin...2024-04-2923 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 92: Operation Plaza Strike: The Nogales Plaza and Plaza Boss Sergio Valenzuela ValenzuelaEarlier this month, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced the implementation of Operation Border Spike, which it called the next step in the CBP's strategy to combat fentanyl and other synthetic drugs. Operation Border Spike begins with a focus on the Nogales, Sonora plaza and the plaza's boss.
In this Episode, I give a brief overview of the city of Nogales, and then focus on the elements of Operation Border Spike, as announced by CBP. I then provide a brief history of the man at the head of the Nogales plaza -- Sergio Valenzuela Valenzuela. In par...2024-04-2036 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 91: Ciudad Juarez -- It's History, Cartel Influences, and FutureOne of the more profound impacts of the Cartel wars has been the focus on the violence in many areas of the country, and corresponding diminishing attention to Mexico's rich and diverse history, culture, and economy.
In this Episode, I look at this concept through the lens of Ciudad Juarez. Specifically, I examine the city's fascinating history, as well the rise and fall of the Juarez Cartel. Next, I look at the current Cartel battles for control of the city and the economy in Juarez today.
Finally, I put a human face on the cartel i...2024-04-1247 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 90: The Fentanyl Crisis and the Politics of the United States and MexicoI frequently get asked what I the major issues in the fight against the Mexican cartels and the fentanyl crisis. In response, in addition to other issues, I often talk about the demand for illegal drugs in the United States and elsewhere and the economic realities in much of Mexico that precipitate participation in the cartels. Recently, I read two interesting and compelling articles that add to the analysis, and I discuss each in this Episode.
The first article presents five policy areas Presidential aspirants should address in connection with the fight against the cartels. Those policies po...2024-04-0542 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 89 -- ADX Supermax -- El Chapo and BeyondLast week, while on a spring trip road trip with my daughter, we passed by the town of Florence, Colorado and ADX Supermax, the most secure prison in the country, housing our most dangerous and notorious prisoners, including infamous former cartel leader, El Chapo Guzman.
My curiosity spurred, this Episode discusses the impetus for the construction of Supermax, the prisoners placed in Supermax, and how they are segregated within the prison. Next, we look at the cells and daily lives of prisoners at Supermax face. Finally, examine some litigation and complaints regarding the prison, including those from El...2024-03-3041 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 88: Bravo Ranch and the Discovery of the Bodies of Camarena and ZavalaMay 5 marked 39 years since the tragic discovery of the bodies of Agent Camarena and Captain Zavala. Since there is a significant amount of disinformation about the discoveries and surrounding events, this Episode provides facts to set the record straight.
Initially, we discuss Commandante Pavon Reyes and the kidnapping of Captain Zavala, identifying the widely disseminated false narratives. Next, we describe the massacre at Bravo Ranch and the subsequent discovery of the bodies of Agent Camarena and Captain Zavala. Finally, we examine the reasonable inferences of a conspiracy arising from the Bravo Ranch facts.
2024-03-1540 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 87: Impacts from the AMLO Investigation ReportsIn an early January episode, I discussed the just-released reports that claimed the DEA had investigated information that drug traffickers had funneled millions of dollars into the 2006 presidential campaign of current Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. In that discussion, we questioned the impact of those reports could have on bilateral relations, especially in light of speculation that they have been leaked by U.S. actors or agencies.
In this Episode, I look at recent claims that the reports in fact have impaired cooperation between the two countries, including pausing a planned operation to capture and arrent C...2024-03-0332 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 86: China's Connection to the Mexican CartelsChina's role in the drug trafficking enterprises of the Mexican cartels is often discussed, but often without significant specificity or detail.
In this Episode, I explore the services provided by Chinese criminal organizations to the cartels, prominently in the supply of precursor chemicals and in money laundering.
I also look at the role of the Chinese government and its potential to disrupt the Chinese organizations aiding the cartels, especially in areas relating to cryptocurrency and other virtual assets.
Finally, I speculate about the future of the cartel-China relationship by discussing, among other issues, pote...2024-02-2547 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 85: The Many Lives of Los Zetas and Fight for Control of TamaulipasIn the ever-changing world of Mexican cartels, it often is hard to "know the players without a scorecard." Such is the case as cartels battle for control of the Mexican state of Tamaulipas and the lucrative border town of Nuevo Laredo.
In this Episode, I trace the lineage of the infamous Los Zetas cartel to one of the prime combatants in Nuevo Laredo, the Cartel del Noreste or CDN. I also discuss other Zeta-related splinter groups, including the Zetas Vieja Escuela, or Old School Zetas.
Finally, I look at the now fractionalized Gulf Cartel, and...2024-02-1839 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 84: Did Narco Traffickers Partially Fund an AMLO Presidential Campaign ?Recent headlines trumpeted reports that the DEA head investigated allegations that narco traffickers had provided millions of dollars to a presidential campaign of current Mexican President Andres Manual Lopez Obrador ("AMLO").
In this Episode, I examine the reports of the DEA's investigation into the allegations that the traffickers provided funds to AMLO's 2006 campaign. To do so, I look at the state of Mexican politics and cartels in 2006, describe the key figures in the alleged cooperation between the traffickers and the AMLO campaign, and walk through the investigation itself. Finally, I speculate on what these revelations could mean...2024-02-0557 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 83: A Fresh Look at Recent Event in MexicoThe ongoing battles between CDS, CJNG, and the military for control of the Mexican state of Chiapas have been widely reported in the news for the last few weeks.
In this Episode, I look into the crisis in Chiapas by tying together various events occurring over the better part of the last decade to understand what led to the current events.
In particular, I look at the fracture between the Los Chapitos and El Mayo factions of CDS that arose in the aftermath of the arrest and extradition of El Chapo. I then consider the ca...2024-01-2443 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 82: A Retired FBI Agent’s Inside Look into the World of MS-13Daniel Brunner boasts an impressive 29 years of combined service in federal law enforcement and the U.S. Navy. Serving 20 years as a Special Agent in the FBI, Mr. Brunner developed a wide area of expertise including vital Latin and South American geopolitical subjects, encompassing facets such as China's involvement, organized crime ranging from gangs to cartels, nuances of local business practices, corruption, the prevailing political atmosphere, and intricate local due diligence.
In particular, Mr. Brunner, working with other federal agencies and the offices of the U.S. Attorneys, investigated the criminal enterprise known as MS-13 and was...2024-01-1449 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 81: The Enigma that is Juan Ramon Matta Ballesteros (Part 2)For the first episode of 2024, I conclude our examination into the life and career of Honduran trafficker Juan Ramon Matta Ballesteros.
In this Episode, I look at the allegations connecting Matta to the Camarena kidnapping, including his alleged presence at Lope de Vega and his escape from Mexico City shortly after the Camarena abduction. I also examine his role in connecting Felix Gallardo with the cocaine traffickers from Colombia.
Matta's connection to the Honduran airline company SETCO also is discussed, as well as his alleged relationship with the CIA.
Finally, I look at M...2024-01-0843 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 80: The Enigma That is Juan Ramon Matta Ballesteros (Part 1)Juan Ramon Matta Ballesteros played a pivotal role in the expansion of drug trafficking from Colombia to Mexico and to the United States in the 1970s and 1980s. Moreover, many allege he and his company were significant actors in the U.S.'s proxy war in support of the Contras seeking to overthrow Nicaragua's Sandinista government. Matta also may have been involved in the kidnapping and murder of DEA Agent Kiki Camarena.
In this Episode, the first of two, we look at Matta's upbringing and his introduction to crime. We also investigate Matta's deep connection to the...2023-12-1044 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 79: The Capture of El Nini and Other Key Recent EventsLast Wednesday, El Nini, the head of security for Los Chapitos and head of Los Ninis, was arrested in a mid-day raid on a house in Culiacan. In this Episode, we examine the capture of El Nini and, most significantly, we discuss the possible reasons behind his capture and its timing. Notably, we discuss suggestions that his capture was part of a secret agreement between the Mexican military and Los Chapitos.
We also discuss the death of El Mago, a key figure of Los Chapitos in Los Angeles, and discuss whether his murder is related to his c...2023-11-2632 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 78: Amado Carrillo Fuentes - Who Was He, What Did He Do, and is He Still Alive?My recent viewing of season 3 of Narcos: Mexico, which features Amado Carrillo Fuentes in one storyline, coupled with recent discussions about his death, led me to look more into the life, career, and death of The Lord of the Skies.
In this episode, we look at Amado's rise from one of twelve children in Sinaloa, to the tutelage he received from old school traffickers Ernesto Fonseca Carrillo, his uncle, and Pablo Acosta Villarreal, to his rise to the leadership of the Juarez Cartel.
We also examine his ill-fated alliance with, first, Pablo Escobar, and, later...2023-11-1941 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 77: A 1986 US Embassy Memo on the Mexican Legal System and the Camarena CaseA September 1986 memorandum from the US Embassy in Mexico City to the State Department in Washington D.C. sought to "clear up some of the confusion that has been created by efforts to explain Mexican legal proceedings using US definitions" and to "promote a greater understanding of the differences between the Mexican and U.S. legal systems."
In this Episode, we highlight the key differences discussed in the memorandum, including the burden of proof on a criminal defendant in Mexico, the unique elements of a trial in Mexico, and the active role of Mexican judges in the...2023-11-1232 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 76: Using Social Networking Analysis to Understand Mexican Cartels and the Nature and Strengths of CDS and CJNGPolicy decisions regarding Mexican cartels should be driven by careful analysis coupled with a deep understanding of the cartel network structure in Mexico and its primary actors, i.e., CJNG and CDS. Social network analysis is a tool that can be used to evaluate these critical issues.
In this Episode, we discuss social network analysis and recent reports applying this methodology to Mexico's cartels. Those reports provide critical insight on the key differences between CDS and CJNG, the breadth and scope of the cartel network in Mexico, and possible outcomes if the power and strength of CDS or...2023-11-0540 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 75: More Analysis of the Crisis of Guns Trafficked to Mexico and the Subjective Nature of the TruthIn this Episode, we discuss some current events including the devastation in and around Acapulco caused by Hurrican Otis and the end of Red Ribbon Week.
We then look at the Biden administration's announced intent to complete part of the border wall in Starr County, Texas.
Next, we add to the discussion last week about the trafficking of guns and other weapons from the U.S. into Mexico, including analysis of some of the underlying causes of this continuing problem.
Finally, we discuss the differences between facts and truth, and focus on the...2023-10-3148 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 74: Guns In Mexico: Accepting the Disturbing TruthsThe prolific trafficking of guns and weapons from the U.S. into Mexico is a significant and tragically overlooked issue in the war on drugs and the Mexican cartels.
The easy access to a legal inventory of guns in Texas and other state and lucrative prices on the secondary market has flooded some Mexican border towns – including remarkably violent ones – with guns and weapons, which often make their way into the hands of criminals and Mexican cartels.
In this Episode, we discuss some of the root causes of this gun trafficking problem, the involvement of America...2023-10-2235 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 73: US Military Action Against Mexican Cartels: The Threats and the RealitiesIn this Episode, we look at the political dialogue surrounding the possible use of US military forces against Mexican cartels, as part of the effort to address the fentanyl crisis. The pledges of Republican presidential candidates are examined, as well as the role of a Congressional committee investigating the issue. We also consider some of the difficulties any military action would encounter, including the possibility of retaliation against Americans in border towns, the identification of cartel members, and the sheer size of Mexico. Finally, we address the possible current cooperation between the two governments in light of recent actions in...2023-10-0534 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 72: More on the Extradition of Ovidio Guzman and an Analysis of the Varied Factors Impacting Cartels and Drug TraffickingIn today's Episode, we share some additional thoughts and information on Ovidio Guzman, his extradition, the speed of the extradition process, and what might be expected going forward.
Next, we look at three recent articles discussing different aspects of cartels and the drug trade. One article describes the socio-economic factors driving Mexican youth to join cartels, one looks at the economic impact of the cartels in Mexico, and the last calls for greater cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico to combat the cartels.
Then, in conclusion, we highlight the number of factors contributing to...2023-09-2540 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 71: The Extradition of Ovidio Guzman -- What Happened and What It MeansIn this Episode, we look at the September 15 extradition of Ovidio Guzman and his plea of not guilty in a Chicago federal court. We also examine the impacts his prosecution may have had, or later have, on the Sinaloa Cartel, Los Chapitos, the flow of drugs, including fentanyl, into the U.S., and our understanding of the growth and survival of cartels in Mexico. Finally, we discuss the potential for retribution and a possible revenge warning from Ovidio's brother, Ivan.
2023-09-2029 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 70: Intriguing Observations from Additional Testimony in the Camarena Criminal TrialsIn this Episode, we conclude our look at the testimony in the 1990 and 1992 criminal trials by looking at some miscellaneous testimony from the 1990 trial. In particular, we look at testimony regarding the identities of the major traffickers in Guadalajara at the time of the Camarena abduction, the capture of Caro Quintero in Costa Rica, the discovery of a photograph of Agent Camarena in the home of Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, statements from Juan Ramon Matta Ballesteros after his arrest, and the identification of Caro Quintero as one of the interrogators of Agent Camarena from the interrogation tapes.
We...2023-09-1353 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 69 -- The 1990 Trial Testimony of Hector BerrellezIn this Episode, we examine the testimony of Hector Berrellez in the 1990 criminal trial (Zuno I), including testimony relating to statements made by Juan Jose Bernabe Ramirez about an argument between Caro and Fonseca at Lope de Vega.
Most importantly, though, we use Agent Berrellez's testimony to further analyze the role of Garate Bustamonte in securing witnesses for the investigation and prosecution and to scrutinize the curious timing of Cervantes Santos's allegations against Ruben Zuno-Arce and his disclosures of alleged kidnapping planning meetings.
2023-09-0454 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 68: The Testimony of Lawrence Victor Harrison Part 2 and a New ”Claim” from Hector Berrellez.In this Episode, we examine the testimony of Lawrence Victor Harrison in the 1992 Zuno II trial. Among other issues, this testimony provides an opportunity to consider the government's use of paid witnesses and the critical role of Garate Bustamonte in securing those witness.
We then look at a "new" claim from Agent Berrellez on why, according to him, Agent Camarena was kidnapped, tortured, and murdered. Significantly, we compare this claim with prior claims by Agent Berrellez and consider the reasons they differ.
2023-08-2843 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 67: The Testimony of the Enigma that was Lawrence Victor HarrisonLawrence Victor Harrison was a man of several names and many (possible) roles -- Berkley student, Mexican lawyer, communications guru to the traffickers and Mexican police, and even CIA agent.
In this Episode, we break down the trial testimony of Harrison and see what it says about the traffickers and their relationships with each other, the limited connection Harrison said Ruben Zuno Arce had to the traffickers, and the role of Antonio Garate Bustamonte in connecting Harrison to the DEA and his coming to the U.S.
Finally, and most strikingly, we detail what Harrison ma...2023-08-2057 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 66 -- The Troubling Trial Testimonies of Traffickers Enrique Plascencia Aguilar and Frank RetamozaWe continue our examination of the transcripts from the Zuno I and Zuno II trials by considering the testimonies of traffickers Enrique Plascencia Aguilar and Frank Retamoza.
Plascencia's testimony includes details about the events at La Longosta that may be seen as inconsistent with the accepted narrative. In addition, his testimony regarding a December 1984 meeting is also inconsistent not only with other witnesses at both trials, but also directly at odds with allegations and claims in The Last Narc.
In the case of Frank Retamoza, the government gave him broad immunity and paid him and h...2023-08-1636 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 65: The Zuno Trials -- A Tale of Two ProsecutionsThis week we start a comprehensive review of the two Zuno trials using trial transcripts to look at the claims made by the prosecution and the actual, unfiltered testimony of government and defense witnesses.
In this Episode, we examine the government's opening statements in the two trials and consider the intrinsically contradictory nature of the cases presented. We also demonstrate how the government wholly failed to fulfill the promises made in opening statements with respect to the case against Dr. Alvarez Machain, and consider the impact of the now suspect hair and fiber evidence presented by the g...2023-08-0849 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 64 -- The ”Secret” Roles of Javier Barba Hernandez and Tomas Morlet in the Camarena CaseAs we continue to address many of the unanswered questions regarding the kidnapping, interrogation, and murder of Agent Camarena, in this Episode we look at the possible roles of lawyer turned drug trafficker Javier Barba Hernandez and DFS Agent Tomas Morlet.
In addition to looking at the evidence connecting these men to the kidnapping and interrogation of Agent Camarena, we discuss the significance of this evidence on our consideration of the case as a whole and how it can inform our analysis of the unanswered and perplexing questions that remain all these years after Agent Camarena's tragic de...2023-08-0140 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 63 -- An Academic Analysis of the Long-Term Survival of the Sinaloa CartelThe longevity of the Sinaloa Cartel, when other cartels have come and gone or splintered, is the subject of a recent academic article that we discuss in this Episode.
Specifically, we look at the factors that make the CDS an excellent case study. Next, we consider the article's conclusion that four types of governance practices by the CDS contribute to its resilience: judicial, financial, political, and regulatory.
Finally, we ask some questions about the article's conclusions and consider their application to the current CDS, including the divisions between Los Chapitos and the El Mayo faction of...2023-07-2338 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 62 -- Public Corruption in Mexico and a Discussion of Manuel Bartlett DiazContinuing our discussion from last week, in this Episode, we analyze various statistics, surveys, and other data evidencing the corruption in Mexico and the public's perception of their safety and well-being. We also look at the Mexico State Rule of Law Index, which not only reflects the adherence to the rule of law in the Mexican state but is also being utilized as a public policy tool by most Mexican state governments.
We also look briefly at the career of Manuel Bartlett Diaz and the allegations of corruption against him, in addition to the claims of some of...2023-07-1742 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 61: A Brief History of the Mexican GovernmentAs issues relating to drugs and Mexican cartels are reported on, become part of candidate platforms, and are discussed by policy-makers and those interested in those policies, many question the role of the Mexican government and its actions, or inaction, toward the cartels.
In this Episode, I provide a brief history of the Mexican government, specifically the reign of the PRI party, the rise of political opposition, and the current state of politics in Mexico.
The Episode's focus is less on "what" happened than on "why" events unfolded as they did, and how that recognition ca...2023-07-101h 01Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 60: FBI Agent Michael P. Malone and the Science of the Camarena CaseFBI Agent Michael P. Malone testified as to hair and fiber evidence collected at 881 Lope de Vega and his testimony was a key component of the government's case in all three of the Camarena-related criminal trials.
Following Agent Malone's analysis and testimony in the Camarena cases, several DOJ investigations and analyses from third parties called into question the testimony and science of Agent Malone, resulting in the exoneration of numerous criminal defendants.
In this Episode, we examine the investigations into Agent Malone, his scientific methods, and testimony, examine his description of the forensic analysis at Lope...2023-07-0234 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 59: The Facts and Enduring Questions About 881 Lope de VegaMy continuing effort to confront and consider the unanswered questions regarding the Camarena case leads to this Episode's discussion of the residence at 881 Lope de Vega. By examining the ownership history of the residence, the forensics from the house, and the relevant phone records, we can draw some conclusions about the events at Lope de Vega on February 7 and 8, 1985. And, as often is the case, we raise a few new questions as well.
2023-06-181h 00Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 58: Who Ordered the Kidnapping of Agent Camarena?It is remarkable that 38 years after the abduction, torture, and murder of DEA Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena significant questions remain as to some of the most fundamental elements of the crime.
In this Episode, we examine the main theories on the question of who ordered Agent Camarena's abduction, providing evidence and reasoning both for and against the prominent arguments.
2023-06-041h 05Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 57: Narcos: Mexico and the Camarena Case -- Setting the Record Straight (Part 2)Narcos: Mexico portrayed many events relating to the Camarena case in such a manner that some likely believe all of those events are true and occurred as depicted.
As we continue to investigate the Camarena case and seek answers to lingering questions, it is important to separate dramatic license from actual events.
In this episode, we look at the depictions of the kidnapping of Agent Camarena, the interrogations at Lope de Vega, and the confrontation at the Guadalajara airport, separating fact and fiction, and explaining the significance of these events in particular.
2023-05-2134 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 56: Narcos: Mexico – Setting the Record Straight (Part 1)Narcos: Mexico presented, over the course of three seasons, a dramatic account of the kidnapping and murder of Agent Camarena and the growth of Mexican drug trafficking. Despite clearly being a dramatization based on certain real events, some people accept as true things events presented in Narcos: Mexico that are partially dramatized or even complete fiction.
In this Episode, we look at some of the depictions in Narcos: Mexico relating to the Camarena case, strip away the dramatizations, and present a clear demarcation between fact and fiction.
2023-05-1436 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 55 -- The (Other) Knights TemplarThe Knights Templar cartel formed as from a split in leadership of La Familiar Michoacana, and it left a lasting impression from its short reign. The Knights Templar history is filled with stories of their strict Code of Conduct, drug rehabilitation centers, and graphic violence. It is even alleged that their induction ceremonies included extensive costumes and the eating of hearts.
This Episode provides a historical recap of the Knights Templar and draws some parallels between their ultimate demise and the fall of other cartels.
2023-05-0728 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 54: The Rise, Fall and Rebirth of La Familia MichoacanaThe short reign of La Familia Michoacana as a key Mexican cartel was distinguished by their rapid growth, violent nature, and "unique" leaders, including the bible carrying Nazario Moreno González, known as El Más Loco ("The Craziest One"), and José de Jesús Méndez Vargas alias El Chango ("The Monkey" or "The Ape").
La Familia long had a fractured power structure which, together with defections to the Knights Templar, precipitated the cartel's demise.
In recent years, a new La Familia Michoacana has announced its presence in parts of Mexico City and in Micho...2023-05-0145 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 53: The Indictments of Los Chapitos and What They Really MeanThe recent announcement by the Department of Justice of indictments in three federal courts of Los Chapitos and many of their associates was accompanied by significant detail on the Los Chapitos organization and the efforts of the DEA to infiltrate that organization.
In this Episode, we look at the indictments themselves, the statements of the DOJ, and the materials presented by the DEA detailing the Los Chapitos organization. We then look at what the indictments and the DEA investigations mean to many central figures in the drug trade, on both sides of the border.
2023-04-2434 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 52 -- The Three ”Zs” and the Ironic Downfall of Los ZetasLed primarily by two former members of the Mexican special forces, Arturo Guzmán Decena and Heriberto Lazcano Lazcano, designated Z-1 and Z-3, respectively, the Zetas started as the military wing of the Gulf Cartel and became a fierce cartel, driven by military tactics and ruthless aggression. This Episode explores how, despite their miliary elements, internal fractionalization and external threats arising from their merciless actions led to the rapid downfall of the once-feared cartel. Today, Los Zetas are gone and all that remains are isolated factions and groups claiming, without much effect, to be its successors.
2023-04-1737 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 51- Osiel Cardenas Guillen and the Power Move that Almost Brought Down the Gulf CartelAs part of our series analyzing the older Mexican cartels and, in particular, understanding their leaders, today we discuss Osiel Cardenas Guillen, who rose from being a mechanic in Matamoros to leader of the Guld Cartel.
While heading CDG, Cardenas Guillen was directly responsible for the creation of Los Zetas, as well as the territorial and operational growth of the Cartel. He also made a curious display of power that drew the attention of law enforcement in Mexico and the United States, likely precipitating his arrest.
Following Cardenas Guillen's arrest and eventual extradition to the U.S...2023-04-0233 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 50: The Rise, Possible Betrayal, and Fall of Alfredo Beltran LeyvaThe Beltran Leyva brothers rose to a prominent role in the Sinaloa Cartel together with their long-time "friend" El Chapo, then splintered from the CDS, formed an alliance with Los Zetas, only to be decimated by arrests and killings.
In this Episode, we examine the life of Alfredo Beltran Leyva in order to understand the BLO and to identify the reasons behind their blood feud with El Chapo. We also address the reasons for the BLO's ultimate fall, and, finally, we consider Alfredo's prosecution and imprisonment in the U.S., which finds him now residing at the Su...2023-03-2633 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 49: The Tragically Violent Life of El Chapo’s Former Friend and Partner El Guero PalmaJesús Héctor Luis Palma Salazar, "El Guero" Palma, has led a tragic and violent life that has seen him rise from an impoverished childhood, to being a main cog in Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo's operation, to being a partner and friend of El Chapo Guzman. Along the way, El Guero lost his wife and sons to the violent ways of cartels, he was responsible for numerous killings, and has spent decades in prison. His tale is both a cautionary and a tragic one.
His relationship with El Chapo also provides interesting clues about El Chapo's relat...2023-03-2039 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 48 -- The CIA: Black Ops, Narcotics, and El ChapoThe mythos of CIA involvement in the Camarena case warrants additional consideration and a renewed rebuttal. In this Episode, we set the stage for such reconsideration by reviewing CIA blacks ops, including public disclosures on black ops and a review of the CIA-backed Operation Gladio. We then turn our attention to allegations of CIA involvement in drug trafficking around the globe, as well as assertions of a period of cooperation between the CDS and the CIA. Finally, we look at interesting connections between recently convicted Genaro Garcia Luna and the CIA. Each of these elements provide a foundation a fra...2023-03-1243 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 47: A Perspective on the Evolution of Cartels in MexicoThe rise of cartels in Mexico has been the result of a number of factors, including anti-drug efforts by law enforcement around the world, the structure of the Mexican government, and the adaptive nature of the cartels and their leaders. In this Episode, we use the "Organized Crime and Violence Special Report 2021" from the University of San Diego's Department of Political Science and International Relations to examine those factors, particularly in light of recent anti-cartel efforts on both sides of the border.
2023-03-0543 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 46: The Curious Case of Dr. Humberto Alvarez MachainDr. Alvarez Machain was a Guadalajara doctor who often provided medical services to drug traffickers, including Rafael Caro Quintero. Following the murder of Agent Camarena, a warrant was issued for his arrest and, in April 1990, Dr. Machain was "abducted" from Guadalajara, flown to El Paso, arrested, and charged with crimes connected to Agent Camarena's murder.
Following Dr. Machain's arrest, his voluntary post-arrest interview and his trial as a defendant in Zuno II present a nuanced case study and call into question Dr. Machain's portrayals in dramatic programs and the statements made about Dr. Machain in "The Last Na...2023-02-2631 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 45: The Trial of Genaro Garcia Luina -- What Happened and Why It MattersThe Brooklyn-based trial of Genaro Garcia Luna, the former Secretary of Public Security of Mexico, has neared its conclusion. In this Episode, we look at the government's case, which was based primarily on the testimony of nine cooperating witnesses, and the defense arguments and tactics. We also consider what the Garcia Luna case says about prosecutions of cartel members and their alleged associates, both in the past and those yet to be held.
2023-02-1940 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 44: CDS and CJNG in Europe, the Middle East, and Around the WorldMexican cartels have been steadily expanding their operations beyond North and Central America, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. In this Episode, we look at these expanded operations, their root causes, and the implications the growth could have on issues such as increased crime and terrorism. Finally, we look at the impact of the cartels' global presence on anti-drug and counter-cartel efforts in both Mexico and the United States.
2023-02-1228 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 43 -- The Unholy Trinity: Fentanyl, China and Mexican CartelsThe fentanyl crisis continues to attract media and Congressional attention. In this Episode, we look at the issue by first looking at the drug itself, its legal and illegal uses, and its manufacturing. We then investigate China's distribution of precursor chemicals used in the production of fentanyl, as well as Chinese money laundering operations that facilitate the production, manufacturing, and sale of fentanyl. Finally, we summarize the DEA's public comments regarding the role of Mexican cartels in the trafficking of illegal fentanyl in the United States and its focus on the CDS and CJNG, which the DEA says are the...2023-02-0526 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 42: The Capture of Ovidio Guzman: What Really Happened and What It MeansNew and intriguing details of the January 5, 2023, arrest of Ovidio Guzman, one of Los Chapitos, the leaders of a prime faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, have continued to emerge both in the press and on social media. In this Episode, we look at those new details and try to draw some conclusions as to what they mean for Los Chapitos, CDS as a whole, and the relationship between CDS and the Mexican government.
2023-01-2936 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 41 -- CDS and CJNG: Past, Present, and FutureCJNG and CDS dominate the cartel landscape in Mexico today. But the two cartels operate in distinct ways and have very different strategies, economically and structurally. In this Episode, we compare and contrast the operations of CDS and CJNG and identify key questions about the future of each cartel.
2023-01-2246 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 40 -- El Chapo, Los Chapitos, and the Sinaloa CartelIn order to understand today's Mexican cartels and the cartel wars, it is critical to understand the (mostly) men and families that formed and lead the cartels of today and the past. After looking at El Mencho and El Mayo, in this Episode we examine El Chapo's rise to power, his blood battles with the Tijuana Cartel and the BLO, and his arrest and extradition. We then look at the ascension of some of his sons, Los Chapitos, to leadership of, at least, a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel, their expansion of their father's business, and we speculate on th...2023-01-1550 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 39 -- Who Is El Mayo and How Has He Survived So Long?Ismael Zambada Garcia, or "El Mayo," has been a key leader of the Sinaloa Cartel since 1989, overseeing the Cartel's rise to being one of the most influential drug trafficking, criminal organizations in the world. Despite his prominence, El Mayo has stayed in power for more than 3 decades by being a strategic thinker who has kept those in his organization happy and has given value to avoiding the spotlight and instead going unnoticed. In this Episode, we examine El Mayo's life, his leadership of CDS, and the future of CDS given El Mayo's age and health concerns.
2023-01-0840 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 38: Who Really is El Mencho and Why Hasn’t He Been Captured?CJNG has exploded into one of the largest and most successful Cartels in Mexico and is responsible for a significant portion of the drugs trafficked from Mexico into the US. CJNG's rise to power, it's almost unmatched brutality, and its economic prowess all can be attributed to its unquestioned leader El Mencho. Shockingly, the public information on El Mencho is minimal and filled with urban legend, gossip, and innuendo. In this Episode, we look at what really is known about El Mencho and discuss his confounding ability to evade arrest.
2023-01-0235 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 37 -- Hidden ”Gems” in Congressional Report on Mexican CartelsIn June, the Congressional Research Service issued a report titled "Mexico: Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking Organizations." In this episode, we look at the key elements of the report, including its analysis of current Mexican cartels, their illicit activities, and their leadership. We also discuss some of the drawbacks to or flaws in the report and how they affect policy considerations in both the U.S. and Mexico.
2022-12-2658 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 36 -- An Inside Look into the Arellano Felix Organization (Mexico’s Tijuana Cartel)Steve Duncan is a retired Special Agent with the California Department of Justice where he spent years investigating the AFO on both sides of the border. In this Episode, Steve shares his extensive knowledge and unique perspectives on the AFO, dispels oft repeated misinformation, and provides critical insight into this brutally prolific cartel and its leaders.
2022-12-161h 03Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 35 (Rev) -- Mexican Cartels: Your Questions AnsweredAfter a few reports of issues, here is a new version of Episode 35.
2022-12-121h 11Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 35 -- Mexican Cartels: Your Questions AnsweredOver the last few months, many listeners have asked questions about Mexican cartels today, the Camarena case, and the traffickers in Guadalajara at the time of Agent Camarena's abduction.
In this episode, I answer some of the most popular questions, discussing the current turf battles in Mexico and the leadership of the cartels. We also examine Agent Camarena's abduction and some of the key circumstances surrounding his interrogations.
2022-12-111h 11Cartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 34 -- El Mayo, El Mencho, and a Brief History of Mexican CartelsAs our discussions move beyond just the Camarena case, listeners may not be familiar with the significant Mexican cartels or their most notorious leaders. This Episode provides a high-level history of the cartel-system in Mexico, identifies the prominent cartels and their areas of influence in the U.S., and discusses the two most known and infamous leaders of Mexican cartels today -- El Mencho and El Mayo.
2022-12-0556 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 33 -- The SEDENA Hacks: Extradition and Caro Quintero’s Return to PowerThe SEDENA hacked documents reviewed thus far have provided new insights into the extradition process between Mexico and the United States, including U.S. efforts to increase the number of extraditions from Mexico, and, specifically, its strong desire to have Caro Quintero extradited. Also, the hacks provide clear evidence of Caro's involvement in drug trafficking following his release in 2013, including his assumption of control of the Beltran Leyva Organization in 2017.
In this episode, we look at these revelations from the SEDENA documents and speculate on what they may mean in relation to the possible extradition of Caro Qu...2022-11-2040 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 32 -- Testimony v. Facts: Las Americas Hotel and Manuel Bartlett DiazAs time goes by, finding concrete facts relating to the Camarena case becomes more and more difficult. In this episode, though, we look at testimony and statements from Godoy and Lopez regarding an alleged meeting at the Las Americas Hotel and a February 7 meeting where it is claimed Manuel Bartlett Diaz was present. In contrast to the uncorroborated statements of Godoy and Lopez, we look for verifiable facts -- statements, affidavits, pictures, and contemporaneous press reports to question the veracity of those claims.
2022-11-1344 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 31 -- Analyzing Agent Berrellez’s ”Assertions”In a recent telephone conversation, Agent Berrellez made several assertions and asked me to look at them with an open mind, to which I agreed.
In this episode, we analyze those assertions seeking factual support and consistency. In the end, our review leaves us questioning many of the contentions aired in "The Last Narc" and doubting the veracity of the witnesses relied upon by the prosecution, Agent Berrellez, and the filmmakers.
2022-11-0645 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 30: What the Mexican Military Hacks Say About the Government and the CartelsThe recent hacks of the Mexican Secretariat of National Defenses and subsequent release of more than 4 million documents has led to intriguing headlines and claims. In this episode, we look at the documents released, the impact of those documents on the intelligence apparatus in Mexico and public perception of the military. Finally, and significantly, we look at what these documents say, thus far, about the relationship between the Mexican government, the military, and the Cartels.
2022-10-3047 minCartels, Conspiracies, and CamarenaEpisode 29: The ”Witnesses” Are Neither Credible Nor ConsistentThe consistent refrain from supporters of the Berrellez narrative is that the witnesses have no incentive to lie and have been consistent in their statements.
In fact, though, as demonstrated in this episode, the witnesses have had numerous incentives to lie and have been demonstrably inconsistent on important and decisive issues in this case.
This episode presents evidence and facts to demonstrate the folly of reliance on either Godoy or Lopez.
2022-10-1756 min
The Cameron Journal PodcastTrue Crime with Jack LuellenOn this episode of The Cameron Journal Podcast we're talking with author and lawyer Jack Luellen about his investigation around the murder of a DEA agent in Mexico in 1985. If you like NARCOS, juicy details and wrongful conviction then this book and this conversation has it all!2022-03-211h 01