Mocobizscene- A notorious drug kingpin known as “El Don” appeared in a Manhattan courtroom on Thursday, facing multiple charges of drug trafficking, assault, and kidnapping. After evading capture for over a year, the federal authorities apprehended him in Mexico.
During the raid of the Morris Heights apartment, authorities discovered a significant amount of drugs, including fentanyl and cocaine, totalling nine pounds. Additionally, three individuals who were associated with Huertas were apprehended by investigators.
According to Special Narcotics Prosecutor Bridget Brennan, Huertas managed to escape and evade capture for a year and a half before eventually being apprehended in Jalisco, Mexico. He was then extradited to New York.
Brennan emphasized the devastating impact of illegal drugs in our city, stating that they not only contribute to an alarming number of overdose deaths but also involve criminal organizations charged with crimes against human life.
Prosecutors claim that the suspects, including Huertas, were closely monitored by the police as they entered and exited the apartment on Bronxdale Avenue. Video footage was used to track their movements.
In February 2022, the police took action and apprehended the crew involved in the incident. Among those arrested were Ronny Jimenez and Cesar Jimenez, who later confessed to charges related to drug possession, kidnapping, and illegal possession of weapons. Both individuals received a prison sentence of seven years.
Jasmin Roman, another accomplice, has admitted to drug possession and has been given a five-year probation sentence, according to authorities.
After evading capture, Huertas was finally apprehended in Mexico in September and subsequently extradited to the United States on a federal warrant.
In Manhattan Supreme Court on Thursday, he stood before the judge wearing a green jumpsuit and white sneakers. He was arraigned on charges of kidnapping, conspiracy, assault, operating as a major trafficker, and multiple counts of drug possession.
Huertas entered a plea of not guilty before Judge Steven Statsinger, who then ordered him to be held without bail. At a later date, he is expected to be returned to federal custody.
“This indictment sheds light on the sinister aspects of drug trafficking, including the alarming presence of violence, kidnapping, and torture,” stated Frank Tarantino, an esteemed special agent overseeing the New York division of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.
DEA remains dedicated to ensuring that criminals are held accountable for their actions, regardless of their attempts to evade justice. According to Tolentino, in collaboration with law enforcement partners, the agency’s relentless pursuit successfully located Jonathan Huertas in Jalisco, enabling him to face the legal repercussions of his crimes.
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