Related Federal Cases
Mexican Cartel Leader Gets 31 Years
A Lexington federal judge handed down a 31-year sentence to Ciro Macias Martinez, a 32-year-old Mexican national residing in Georgetown, for his role as the local head of a sophisticated drug trafficking and money laundering organization tied to Mexican drug cartels.
According to the investigation, Macias was responsible for distributing kilogram quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin to Central Kentucky. He also collected proceeds and laundered money through the banking system, using contract couriers to pick up large sums of bulk cash, which were then deposited at multiple banks in increments less than $10,000 per transaction.
Several other individuals, including Arlenne Sosa, Laura Ortiz, and Smirna Ortiz, pleaded guilty to their roles in the money laundering scheme. Sosa received a three-year sentence, while Ortiz received four years. Smirna Ortiz was convicted at trial and faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
The investigation, led by the DEA, Lexington Police Department, and Kentucky State Police, seized and forfeited approximately $1.2 million. The defendants will serve 85% of their respective prison sentences and will be under supervision by federal probation officers for additional terms upon their release.
Macias will face deportation to Mexico after serving his sentence. United States Attorney Robert M. Duncan, Jr., praised the efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation, stating that the sentence imposed by the court underscores the severity of Macias’ criminal conduct.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement agencies announced the sentencing, commending the dedicated service of the agents, officers, and prosecutors involved in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd Bradbury represented the United States in the case.
The Lexington community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the leader of a large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering cell has been brought to justice. The sentence imposed by the court sends a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated.
Key Facts
- State: Kentucky
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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