Alleged Sinaloa Cartel leader Brian Donaciano Olguin-Verdugo, also known as Pitt, appeared in a federal court in San Diego following his extradition from Colombia. He is accused of trafficking significant quantities of cocaine into the United States from Mexico.
Olguin-Verdugo was indicted by a federal grand jury in California's Southern District in March 2021 on charges of international conspiracy to distribute and import cocaine. Colombian authorities apprehended him in April 2022 during a visit to Cali, and he was extradited to the United States after Colombia approved the request in May 2025.
During today's hearing, Olguin-Verdugo pleaded not guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jill L. Burkhardt. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 20, 2025, for a motion hearing and trial setting with U.S. District Court Judge Todd W. Robinson.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon stated, "Those who export dangerous drugs to the United States and seek to evade justice will find no place to hide." He expressed appreciation for Colombian authorities' cooperation and emphasized that extraditing high-level cartel targets remains a national priority.
The prosecution is part of an extensive investigation involving over 125 individuals and impacting the global operations of the Sinaloa Cartel. This investigation has provided insights into one of the world's most powerful drug cartels through collaboration with multiple countries and law enforcement agencies across the United States.
The case began in late 2011 as an investigation into what was initially thought to be a small-scale drug distribution cell but expanded significantly upon discovering ties to the Sinaloa Cartel. The probe led to numerous arrests and seizures including large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, and nearly $28 million in narcotics proceeds.
The Justice Department acknowledged contributions from Colombian government entities and various U.S. agencies such as the Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Marshals Service for facilitating Olguin-Verdugo's arrest and extradition.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew J. Sutton is prosecuting this case under Operation Take Back America—a federal initiative targeting illegal immigration, cartels, transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and violent crime perpetrators—established by President Trump through Executive Order 14159.
