Ovidio Guzman Lopez, the son of Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman Loera and a leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, has pleaded guilty to federal drug charges in Chicago. The plea was part of a collaborative effort involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Justice Department’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, prosecutors from multiple districts, and law enforcement partners including the FBI and DEA.
Ray Rede, acting special agent in charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations, commented on the significance of the plea: “The guilty plea by Ovidio Guzman Lopez, son of El Chapo, is a real victory for both the U.S. and Mexico but also a clear win for the rule of law.” He emphasized that no one is beyond the reach of law enforcement.
Guzman Lopez admitted guilt to two counts each of drug conspiracy and engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise. His plea resolves charges from grand juries in Illinois and New York. A sentencing date has not been set by U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman.
The announcement came as part of Operation Take Back America, an initiative aimed at dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations. U.S. Attorney Andrew S. Boutros stated: “Today’s historic guilty plea sends yet another crystal-clear message that this administration is going to shut down and hold accountable transnational criminal organizations.”
Guzman Lopez acknowledged coordinating large shipments of drugs into the United States using various methods. He also admitted to laundering proceeds through cash transport, wire transfers, trade goods, and cryptocurrency.
As part of his agreement, Guzman Lopez will forfeit $80 million. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton remarked on the importance of this development in combating the fentanyl epidemic: “Today’s guilty plea is another major step toward holding the Sinaloa Cartel and its leaders accountable.”
U.S. Attorney Todd Gordon noted: “With each passing day, you are seeing the sunset of the Sinaloa cartel.” Guzman Lopez's brothers face similar charges; however, they remain at large or are awaiting trial.
The charges against Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar, Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar, and Joaquin Guzman Lopez are allegations until proven otherwise in court.
