A federal court in Brooklyn has unsealed a seven-count indictment against José Adolfo Macías Villamar, also known as "Fito," leader of the Los Choneros transnational criminal organization. The indictment accuses Macías Villamar of international cocaine distribution conspiracy, using firearms for drug trafficking, smuggling firearms from the US, and a conspiracy to purchase firearms illegally. The defendant is currently not in U.S. custody.
United States Attorney John J. Durham emphasized the significance of this case due to the harm caused by Los Choneros in both Ecuador and the United States. "As alleged, the defendant was a ruthless leader and prolific drug trafficker for a violent transnational criminal organization," Durham stated. He appreciated the efforts of various federal and international agencies involved, including the DEA and Ecuadorian government.
DEA Acting Administrator Derek Maltz echoed the importance of tackling such criminal networks to combat drug trafficking and violence. "The indictment of José Adolfo Macías Villamar marks a significant strike against the violent networks that flood our communities with dangerous drugs like cocaine," said Maltz.
The charges highlight Los Choneros' alleged control over cocaine trafficking routes in partnership with Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel, impacting distribution networks across multiple regions, including the United States. Authorities allege that Los Choneros used "sicarios" and engaged in acts of violence to maintain operations, and illegally smuggled firearms from the U.S. to Ecuador.
ATF Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks noted the collective efforts to combat drug and firearm trafficking. "This investigation and charges are a testament to the combined efforts of law enforcement and underscores the resolve of ATF and our federal, state, and local partners."
The indictment connects to Operation Take Back America, a Department of Justice initiative targeting illegal immigration, cartels, and transnational criminal organizations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chand Edwards-Balfour and Lorena Michelen are leading the prosecution as part of the International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section and the Transnational Criminal Organizations Strike Force.
The charges remain allegations at this stage, and Macías Villamar is presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted, he could face a sentence ranging from 10 years to life in prison.
