Indictment: NBC New York Investigation
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Former DEA Agent Indicted for Allegedly Aiding Mexican drug Cartel
Table of Contents
A retired high-ranking DEA agent and an associate face charges of conspiring to launder money and procure weapons for the Jalisco New generation Cartel (CJNG).
What Happened?
Paul Campo, 61, a former DEA agent who served for 25 years before retiring in 2016, and Robert Sensi, 75, have been indicted on charges of conspiring to launder millions of dollars and obtain military-grade firearms and explosives for the CJNG, a Mexican drug cartel. The indictment was unsealed on Friday in New York.
The case unfolded through a sting operation involving a law enforcement informant posing as a CJNG member. Prosecutors allege that Campo and Sensi agreed to launder approximately $12 million in drug proceeds and converted around $750,000 into cryptocurrency, believing it was destined for the cartel, when in reality, it went to the U.S.government. They also allegedly facilitated a payment for 220 kilograms of cocaine intended for sale in the U.S.
The jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG)
The CJNG, also known as Jalisco Nueva Generación, is a powerful Mexican drug trafficking organization. It has rapidly expanded its influence in recent years, challenging established cartels and becoming a notable threat to security in Mexico and the United States.
Key Facts about CJNG:
- Founded: Approximately 2009
- Leader: Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes (“El Mencho”)
- Area of Operation: Primarily Jalisco state, Mexico, but with expanding operations nationwide and internationally.
- activities: Drug trafficking (methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl), extortion, kidnapping, and violence.
- Designation: Designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. Department of State in February 2024.
The CJNG is known for its extreme violence and willingness to engage in direct confrontations with the Mexican military and rival cartels. Its increasing sophistication and access to resources make it a particularly risky organization.
Allegations Against campo and Sensi
According to the indictment, Campo and Sensi not only discussed laundering money but also explored procuring a range of weapons, including:
| Weapon Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Commercial Drones | For surveillance and potential transport. |
| AR-15 Semiautomatic Rifles | commonly used assault rifles. |
| M4 Carbines | Military-grade assault rifles. |
| grenade Launchers | For explosive attacks. |
| Rocket-Propelled Grenades | High-explosive anti-tank weapons. |
Prosecutors claim the pair received a payment for the cocaine deal, anticipating a share of the profits. They were apprehended after appearing before a magistrate judge in New York and were ordered to be held without bail.
Legal Responses and Defense
Both Campo and Sensi pleaded not guilty through their attorneys. Mark Gombiner,Campo’s lawyer,characterized the indictment as “somewhat sensationalized and somewhat incoherent,” denying any agreement to procure weapons for the cartel.
the defense is likely to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, perhaps arguing entrapment or questioning the credibility of the informant.