Judge Reschedules ‘El Mayo’ Zambada’s Sentencing to April 13
A New York judge has rescheduled the sentencing of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada to April 13, 2024. This decision followed a request from Zambada’s defense team for a 90-day extension to gather additional information to mitigate his sentence. The original sentencing date was set for January 12, 2024.
Background on El Mayo Zambada
Ismael Zambada, a prominent figure in the Sinaloa Cartel, pleaded guilty in August to two charges: drug trafficking and continuing criminal enterprise. This plea allowed him to avoid the death penalty and a public trial.
Defense Request for Extension
Zambada’s attorney, Frank Pérez, argued that the extension was necessary due to the ongoing violence in Sinaloa. This situation has hindered the ability to access witnesses who might provide crucial information for Zambada’s case. According to the court document, the defense must submit a sentencing memorandum and any objections to the presentence report (PSR) by March 30, 2026. The government’s response, if any, is due by April 6.
Recent Developments in the Cartel
Until his recent legal troubles, Zambada had never been incarcerated during his criminal career. His arrest in late July 2024 occurred after being captured in Culiacán, Sinaloa, by his associate Joaquín Guzmán López, the son of the infamous Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Guzmán López, aged 39, revealed in court on December 1 that he delivered Zambada to U.S. authorities, leading to both their arrests in El Paso, Texas.
Implications of the Arrest
Guzmán López’s cooperation with American law enforcement added pressure on other members of the Guzmán family. On July 11, his younger brother Ovidio “El Ratón” Guzmán also pleaded guilty to drug trafficking. The U.S. government has announced a reward of $10 million for the capture of Zambada’s other brothers, Iván Archivaldo and Jesús Alfredo, who remain fugitives.
Violence in Sinaloa
The recent developments have led to increased violence in Sinaloa, sparking a turf war between the factions of the Sinaloa Cartel, specifically between the Mayos and the Chapitos. Culiacán, the capital of Sinaloa, is at the center of this violent struggle, which has weakened the cartel’s power. Meanwhile, rival groups like the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) exploit the chaos, further spreading violence throughout Mexico.
