A federal grand jury in Chicago has indicted Ceferino Espinoza Angulo, a high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel, on charges of drug conspiracy and firearm offenses. The indictment alleges that Espinoza Angulo was involved in manufacturing and distributing fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and other drugs into the United States.
Espinoza Angulo is accused of employing gunmen in Mexico to support the Guzman faction of the cartel, known as "the Chapitos," which includes Ivan Guzman-Salazar, Jesus Alfredo Guzman-Salazar, Ovidio Guzman-Lopez, and Joaquin Guzman-Lopez. The Chapitos are reportedly continuing their father Joaquin Guzman Loera's legacy after his conviction and life sentence.
The charges against Espinoza Angulo include allegations of illegally using a machine gun in connection with his drug trafficking activities. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a minimum of 30 years.
Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual stated: “Our nation’s fentanyl crisis has devastated individuals and families in northern Illinois and throughout the country.” Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon added: “Stopping Mexican cartels from poisoning our communities with fentanyl and other narcotics is a top priority.”
The indictment was announced by officials including Acting U.S. Attorney Pasqual and Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. Several agencies contributed to the investigation, including Homeland Security Investigations and DEA Special Operations Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle J. Parthum and Andrew C. Erskine are representing the government alongside other legal officials.
U.S. Attorney Tara K. McGrath remarked: “We are attacking at every level — from street dealers to cartel leaders.” Assistant Director Yarbrough emphasized: “Let this serve as a clear message: if you engage in cartel activity, we will pursue you.”
Espinoza Angulo is believed to be residing in Mexico with an outstanding U.S warrant for his arrest.
An indictment does not imply guilt; defendants are presumed innocent until proven otherwise beyond reasonable doubt.