Sinaloa Cartel Co-Founder Sentenced to Life in U.S. Prison

Why it matters locally: The sentencing of a major cartel leader to life in U.S. prison could influence the flow of illicit drugs, which have documented impacts on communities across North Dakota, including potential shifts in supply chains that law enforcement agencies monitor.

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A U.S. federal court sentenced Ismael Zambada to life in prison. Authorities identified Zambada, also known as "El Mayo," as a co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel. The court also issued a judgment requiring Zambada to pay $15 billion. Zambada admitted to sending significant quantities of illegal drugs into the United States.