Mexican nationals and former leaders of the Los Zetas cartel appeared in court today in Washington, D.C. They face charges related to a continuing criminal enterprise involving murder conspiracies, drug trafficking, firearm use, and money laundering.
Court documents reveal that Miguel Trevino Morales, known as Z-40 or 40, aged 52, and Omar Trevino Morales, known as Z-42 or 42, aged 48, reached top leadership positions within Los Zetas. This violent cartel began as an armed wing of the Gulf Cartel and consisted of former Mexican military officers. Miguel allegedly led Los Zetas from October 2012 until his arrest by Mexican authorities in 2013. Following this, Omar reportedly took over until his arrest in 2015. Despite their incarceration in Mexico, they allegedly continued to control the cartel under the new name Cartel del Noreste (CDN). The CDN is accused of perpetuating Los Zetas' criminal activities including drug trafficking and acts of violence such as murders and kidnappings. On February 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of State designated CDN as a foreign terrorist organization.
Supervisory Official Matthew R. Galeotti from the Justice Department’s Criminal Division stated: “The Criminal Division is dedicated to achieving the Attorney General’s goal of the Total Elimination of Cartels.” He added that "as alleged," the defendants engaged in conspiracies targeting members of governments and rival cartels. Acting Special Agent Michael Alfonso from ICE Homeland Security Investigations New York commended efforts against cartels saying: “As alleged, the defendants represent some of the world’s most vicious cartel leaders.”
Charges against them include continuing a criminal enterprise and conspiracy to distribute large quantities of cocaine and marijuana into the United States. They also face charges related to firearms use during drug crimes and international money laundering conspiracy. The continuing criminal enterprise charge carries a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment.
Previously unfulfilled U.S. extradition requests were honored by Mexican authorities following efforts by President Trump’s administration against Mexican drug cartels. The defendants were transferred to U.S. custody on February 27.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), ICE HSI, and FBI are leading investigations with prosecution by various legal entities including Acting Deputy Chief Melanie Alsworth and Trial Attorneys Jayce Born and Kirk Handrich from the Criminal Division's Narcotic Section.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America aimed at combating illegal immigration and eliminating transnational criminal organizations through coordinated resources from DOJ initiatives like OCDETFs and PSN.