Reports indicate that the potential successor to the recently deceased cartel leader known as El Mencho is believed to be the first American citizen to head a prominent Mexican cartel.
Identified as Juan Carlos Valencia González, also known as El 3, this individual is currently wanted in the United States with a reward of $5 million (£4.3 million) for any information leading to his apprehension. Aged 41, González is the stepson of the former Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader El Mencho, who was recently eliminated in a military operation in western Mexico.
The aftermath of El Mencho’s demise led to turmoil in the region, with tourists advised to remain indoors due to violent activities by cartel groups at Guadalajara International Airport, including the burning of vehicles and the establishment of roadblocks in city streets.
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El Mencho had a significant role in the recent history of drug trafficking in Latin America, drawing comparisons to notorious figures like El Chapo and Pablo Escobar due to his influence.
González, the son of El Mencho’s wife Rosalinda ‘La Jefa’ González Valencia, reportedly plays a key role in the CJNG, contributing to its rise as one of Mexico’s most dominant criminal organizations. Insider sources suggest that he is poised to take control of the gang.
Born on September 12, 1984, in Santa Ana, California, González is poised to become the first American citizen to lead a major Mexican cartel.
Law enforcement sources have highlighted González’s involvement in drug trafficking activities following a DEA probe in 2020, linking him to the production and distribution of large quantities of narcotics as well as violent crimes dating back to 2007.
In July 2020, González was identified in footage alongside the armed faction of the CJNG. Subsequently, in October of the same year, the US government issued a federal indictment against him for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and firearm usage during drug trafficking operations.
A reward of $5 million was offered for information leading to González’s capture or conviction. DEA Administrator Anne Milgram emphasized the US government’s determination to pursue those causing significant harm
