Federal prosecutors are contemplating pursuing the death penalty against Rafael Caro Quintero, a notorious Mexican drug lord, in connection with the 1985 killing of a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration agent. Assistant U.S. Attorney Saritha Komatireddy confirmed the possibility of capital punishment during a hearing in Brooklyn federal court on Wednesday. The main charge against Caro Quintero — leading an ongoing criminal enterprise — carries a mandatory life sentence but could also result in the death penalty, as per prosecutors. The decision on seeking the death penalty is still pending, with Komatireddy stating that the process is ongoing while a multitude of DEA agents filled the courtroom.
Responding to the situation, Judge Frederic Block appointed a lawyer experienced in federal death penalty cases, Elizabeth Macedonio, to act as special counsel for Caro Quintero. The judge also raised concerns about the defendant’s legal representation, questioning if taxpayer-funded counsel should continue given that Caro Quintero’s family has not retained their own attorney. Financial disclosure forms are to be completed by the defendant’s representatives, and the next court date is set for June 25. Caro Quintero, who has entered a plea of not guilty to drug-related charges, remained silent during the court proceedings, with his legal team yet to comment.
Accompanied by his nephew and former top lieutenant, Ismael Quintero Arellanes, Caro Quintero appeared in court. Quintero Arellanes, nicknamed “Fierro,” is reportedly discussing a potential plea deal related to his involvement in relaying communications and orders within Caro Quintero’s drug operation. He also served as Caro Quintero’s personal bodyguard and head of security.
Caro Quintero, labeled as the “Narco of Narcos,” was part of the Guadalajara cartel before joining the Sinaloa cartel, the world’s largest drug trafficking organization. Prosecutors accuse him of trafficking massive quantities of heroin, methamphetamine, marijuana, and cocaine into the U.S. for many years. He is also held responsible for the brutal torture and murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, a crime brought to life in the series “Narcos: Mexico” on Netflix.
