The Trump administration on Wednesday announced a $25 million reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction of the U.S.-born man believed to lead Mexico’s powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel.The State Department increased its previous $5 million reward for Juan Carlos Valencia González, known as “Pelón,” as part of a broader campaign targeting the cartel, commonly known as CJNG. The announcement coincided with the Justice Department unsealing indictments against five other high-ranking CJNG figures, including the former leader’s son-in-law and godson, on federal charges, including trafficking drugs such as fentanyl and cocaine.Valencia González, a dual citizen of the United States and Mexico, is the stepson of former CJNG leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, or “El Mencho.” He reportedly took control after Oseguera Cervantes was killed in a Mexican military operation in February that was supported by U.S. intelligence.
The State Department said the latest actions were intended to weaken the organization’s leadership. The administration offered a combined $100 million in rewards for six other CJNG leaders and restricted visas for relatives and business associates of cartel members.At a DOJ news conference in Washington announcing the charges, Drug Enforcement Administration Director Terry Cole also warned officials who protect cartels that political influence would not shield them.“If you traffic deadly drugs, profit from the suffering of others, or use public office to protect the cartels, this is your warning,” Cole said. “DEA is coming for you. No title, no position, or political connection will shield you.”
