ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Dairo Úsuga David, a notorious narco-terrorist, was brought to justice in 2021 thanks to the tireless efforts of New Mexico Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristopher N. Houghton.
Houghton, a seasoned prosecutor, was selected as a recipient of a 2021 Criminal Division Assistant Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service for his outstanding work in extraditing Úsuga David and numerous other high-profile defendants.
According to officials, Úsuga David, also known as ‘Otoniel’, was likened to Pablo Escobar by Colombia’s President. His extradition was the culmination of a long and complex investigation that spanned multiple countries.
Houghton’s achievement is all the more impressive given the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, he persevered and led a team of local staff in Bogotá, Colombia, to complete 190 extraditions and submit over 200 provisional arrest requests to the Government of Colombia.
In addition to Úsuga David’s extradition, Houghton’s efforts resulted in the capture and extradition of four individuals identified by the Attorney General as Consolidated Priority Organization Targets. These individuals were responsible for some of the most heinous crimes imaginable, including narco-terrorism and public corruption.
United States Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez praised Houghton’s work, saying: ‘I am proud of Mr. Houghton’s work towards maintaining the most effective bilateral criminal justice relationship in the Western Hemisphere.’
Houghton’s dedication to justice is a shining example of the hard work and determination that defines the best of law enforcement. His achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and perseverance in the face of adversity.
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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