Rafael Caro Quintero, the former leader of one of Mexico’s most notorious cartels, pleaded not guilty to narcotics charges in Brooklyn court on Friday.
The U.S. Justice Department, in a letter opposing bail, described Caro Quintero as one of the most notorious drug lords of the modern era.
The 71-year-old cartel boss, who appeared in court handcuffed, was sent to the United States on Thursday after Mexico extradited him.
Caro Quintero, widely regarded as one of the most infamous figures in drug trafficking, was involved in the kidnapping, torture, and murder of DEA special agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena in the 1980s. He had been on the FBI’s list of the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives until his capture in 2022.
Caro Quintero’s extradition is part of a broader effort by Mexico to avoid tariffs threatened by former President Donald Trump, who linked trade duties to illegal migration and drug trafficking.
The former cartel boss faces serious charges, including narcotics trafficking, with the potential for the death penalty if convicted.
The U.S. Department of Justice also stated that terrorism charges could be pursued.
Mexico’s recent extradition of 29 high-profile cartel figures, including Caro Quintero, comes amid ongoing negotiations with the U.S. to prevent economic sanctions.
Trump had previously designated eight Latin American drug trafficking organisations, including six Mexican cartels, as terrorist groups.
