Pablo Tabares-Martinez, a member of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana drug cartel, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison. He was convicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The U.S. Attorney's Office announced his sentencing after his extradition from Guatemala.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg stated, "The successful extradition and prosecution of Tabares-Martinez reflect my office’s commitment to eliminating dangerous cartels that seek to introduce drugs into our community." He added that this case sends a strong message to cartel members targeting the Northern District of Georgia.
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, commented on the investigation, saying it demonstrates DEA's commitment to protecting communities by removing dangerous drugs and bringing criminals to justice.
Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama, emphasized their dedication: “We will relentlessly pursue and dismantle cartels and criminal organizations that threaten our communities with deadly drugs.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the La Nueva Familia Michoacana (LNFM) cartel is responsible for distributing significant quantities of methamphetamine, opioids, including heroin and fentanyl, and cocaine annually in the United States. Tabares-Martinez orchestrated drug sales in Atlanta and helped establish transportation routes for cocaine from Colombia.
Tabares-Martinez was arrested in 2023 after traveling to Guatemala and was extradited later that year. Chief United States District Judge Leigh Martin May sentenced him earlier today.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Department of Homeland Security led the investigation with assistance from Guatemalan law enforcement. Assistant United States Attorneys Bethany L. Rupert and Laurel B. Milam prosecuted the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative aimed at eliminating major drug traffickers through collaborative multi-agency efforts.
For more information or inquiries, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office or visit their website.
