US authorities are calling for life imprisonment for Rubén Oseguera González, known as El Menchito, the son of notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, or El Mencho. Following his conviction for drug trafficking and firearms possession, prosecutors have pushed for this severe sentence, raising the stakes for the violent legacy of the CJNG.
On February 14, 2025, the request was presented to federal judge Beryl A. Howell, marking another chapter in the long-running battle against drug trafficking organizations. Prosecutors are not only seeking to incarcerate Oseguera for life but also have proposed imposing fines exceeding $12 billion—reflecting the estimated value of the drugs he allegedly trafficked.
"The accused is a serial killer and engaged in excessive violence," asserted US prosecutors, highlighting the gruesome nature of Oseguera's operations. His activities reportedly included running multiple methamphetamine labs and trafficking up to two tons of cocaine monthly from Mexico to the United States. This extensive network operational from 2007 to 2017 has left many questioning the effectiveness of current narcotics enforcement strategies.
But the allegations against Oseguera extend beyond drug trafficking. Witnesses have claimed he was responsible for not only managing the drug operations but also orchestrated significant acts of violence, including ordering the downing of military helicopters during confrontations with security forces, resulting in multiple fatalities.
The prosecution’s demand for such tough measures stems from Oseguera’s history of violence. His conviction last September, which followed his arrest in 2015 and eventual extradition to the United States, solidifies his association with the violent tactics deployed by the CJNG, which has plagued Mexico and the US with narco-related violence.
Despite the overwhelming evidence, Oseguera’s defense is mounting its case with softer demands. Attorney Anthony Colombo announced intentions to advocate for the minimum sentence of 30 years, stating, "We will argue for the least penalty of 30 years." Colombo emphasizes the disproportion between Oseguera’s potential sentence compared to other drug traffickers who provided testimony against him to receive lesser sentences themselves.
The sentencing is expected to take place on March 7, 2025. During this time, Oseguera's defense will have the opportunity to present their arguments for leniency before the judge renders the final decision. This case may also serve as a litmus test for future prosecutions related to drug trafficking, particularly those linked to the infamous CJNG.
Notably, the stakes are high not only for the implicated parties but for the Mexican and US governments as they grapple with how best to confront cartel violence. The United States government has even increased the reward for information leading to the capture of El Mencho himself, raising it to $15 million—a reflection of the serious commitment to dismantling this powerful criminal organization.
Beyond the immediate sentencing issue, the case of El Menchito and the CJNG presents significant ripple effects throughout law enforcement and policy responses to drug trafficking. The outcomes could influence how future cases involving cartel members are prosecuted, potentially altering perceptions and strategies within the drug war.
With powerful networks still operating, the cries for justice echo both within and outside the courtroom. Critics have raised concerns about the effectiveness of existing drug policies, advocating for new approaches to address the challenges posed by groups like the CJNG.
While the trial nears its climax, the next steps for Oseguera remain uncertain. The date for the final judgment inches closer, and with it, the potential for significant sentencing may resonate across the strained US-Mexico relationship amid the continuing drug crisis. For now, all eyes remain on the courtroom, where the fate of El Menchito is set to be determined, signaling the strength and resolve of authorities to confront the shadows of cartel power.