A major development in the fight against international drug trafficking has emerged as Erick Valencia Salazar, 49, pleaded guilty in a US federal court for his role in a large narcotics conspiracy affecting both Mexico and the United States. He is known for co-founding the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) alongside Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, making his plea a key step in efforts to target top figures in major drug cartels.
CJNG Cartel Background and Criminal Operations
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, often referred to as CJNG, has been responsible for widespread drug trafficking, violence, and criminal activities across borders. The United States government has designated it as a foreign terrorist organization due to the scale of harm it has caused.
Before forming CJNG, Valencia Salazar was part of another criminal group known as the Milenio Cartel. Over time, he rose through the ranks and became deeply involved in organized crime.
After co-founding CJNG, he played a key leadership role. Officials say his responsibilities included recruiting new members and gathering intelligence about rival cartels. These activities helped strengthen the cartel’s operations and expand its influence.
However, his partnership with El Mencho did not last forever. Following internal differences, Valencia Salazar split from the organization and started his own cartel called La Nueva Plaza. This move led to further divisions and conflict within the criminal underworld.
Authorities say these actions contributed to increased violence in several regions of Mexico. Rivalries between cartels often result in clashes that affect ordinary citizens, making daily life unsafe in many areas.
Arrests, Extradition, and Legal Proceedings
Valencia Salazar has been arrested more than once. His first arrest took place in 2012 in Mexico. At the time, authorities believed they had dealt a major blow to cartel operations. However, he later reappeared and continued to play a role in organized crime.
He was arrested again in 2022 by Mexican authorities. This time, stronger coordination between Mexico and the United States led to his extradition.
In February 2025, he was sent to the US as part of a group of 29 high-profile drug lords. This transfer was part of a broader effort to bring major cartel figures to justice in American courts.
Back in 2018, a US grand jury had already indicted him on charges related to narcotics conspiracy. These charges accuse him of being involved in the production, transport, and distribution of illegal drugs.
Now, by pleading guilty, Valencia Salazar has admitted to his role in these activities. Under US law, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. However, the sentence could extend to life imprisonment depending on the court’s decision.
The case is being handled by James Boasberg, the chief judge who will decide the final punishment. Sentencing is scheduled for July 31, 2026.
Officials React to the Guilty Plea
US officials have described the guilty plea as an important step in addressing the damage caused by international drug cartels.
Tysen Duva, who serves as the assistant attorney general in charge of the Justice Department’s criminal division, highlighted the impact of Valencia Salazar’s actions.
He stated that the cartel’s operations caused “immeasurable damage” to communities in both Mexico and the United States. According to him, the violence linked to cartel activities has cost many lives and destabilized entire regions.
Authorities also emphasized that targeting cartel leadership is a key strategy in reducing the power of such organizations. By prosecuting individuals like Valencia Salazar, they aim to disrupt the networks that support drug trafficking.
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The CJNG, under leaders like Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, became known for its aggressive tactics and rapid expansion. Over time, even after internal splits, its influence remained strong, therefore making it one of the most feared criminal groups.
Meanwhile, officials say that holding founding members accountable sends a clear message that such crimes will face serious consequences under the law.
Now, Erick Valencia Salazar awaits sentencing, where the court will determine how many years he will spend behind bars for his role in one of the most powerful drug cartels in recent history.