PHOENIX — Due to a partnership between Mexico and the United States to "combat the influx of dangerous drugs", a Mexican national has been extradited to be tried for drug trafficking crimes in the U.S.
Rodrigo Paez-Quintero, a Mexican national, allegedly made at least nine drug trafficking trips from the Lukeville Port of Entry to Phoenix, according to the United States Attorney's Office, District of Arizona.
“Our fight against international drug traffickers who spread poison into our communities requires all hands on deck,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “This extradition is yet another example of our partnership with Mexican law enforcement to dismantle deadly cartels and bring drug kingpins to justice.”
Paez-Quintero is charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl and multiple counts of possession with intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Each count carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a maximum fine of $10 million, officials said.
“This indictment alleges coordinated conduct to traffic fentanyl and other illicit drugs into Phoenix,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “Many thanks to our federal, foreign and sovereign tribal partners for their teamwork and dedication.”
Paez-Quintero made his first court appearance in Tucson on Tuesday.
According to numerous open sources, Paez-Quintero is the nephew of jailed Mexican drug kingpin Rafael Caro-Quintero, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.
Rafael Caro-Quintero, who was considered a godfather of Mexican drug trafficking, killed U.S. DEA agent Enrique ‘Kiki’ Camarena in 1985 and was at one time on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.
