A Mexican national has been sentenced to over eight years in prison for his involvement in a money laundering scheme connected to drug trafficking. Jose Manuel Martinez Gomez, also known as Meño, was identified as a "money broker" within an organization that supported the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG). According to court documents, Martinez arranged for the collection and laundering of $5.4 million in drug proceeds from the United States back to Mexico.
Martinez used a network of co-conspirators across the U.S. to collect these funds and provided instructions for their transfer via cryptocurrency or bank accounts. His role earned him commissions based on the amount successfully laundered.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seized significant quantities of drugs and cash due to Martinez's activities. This included 3 kilograms of fentanyl, 52.77 kilograms of cocaine, over 7,000 kilograms of unconverted methamphetamine in various forms, and $1.35 million in bulk currency.
Acting United States Attorney Paul McCaffrey stated that Martinez's prosecution disrupted CJNG's operations and removed dangerous drugs from American communities. Matthew R. Galeotti from the Justice Department emphasized that this case serves as a warning against those aiding cartels in laundering money.
Jim Scott, Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s Louisville Division, reiterated the agency's commitment to combating drug trafficking and praised law enforcement partners for their efforts.
Martinez pleaded guilty on March 7 to charges of money laundering conspiracy and concealment money laundering. The investigation involved multiple DEA divisions and offices across the U.S., along with assistance from the IRS Criminal Investigation Division.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, which aims to combat illegal immigration and dismantle transnational criminal organizations through coordinated efforts by the Department of Justice.
