Fed. agencies file 43 drug cartel charges

WASHINGTON, Aug. 20 (UPI) -- Federal agencies Thursday announced criminal charges have been filed in Chicago and New York against 43 drug cartel defendants in Mexico and the United States.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration said in a release that the agency, along with the Justice Department, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and others also arrested eight defendants within the past week.

A number of Mexico's most powerful drug cartel leaders have been charged with participating in international drug trafficking conspiracies or operating continuing criminal enterprises. All except one of the defendants face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment if convicted, the DEA said.

"Today's indictments demonstrate our unwavering commitment to root out the leaders of these criminal enterprises wherever they may be found," U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. said.

The U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Patrick J. Fitzgerald, said the indictments "are among the most significant drug conspiracy charges ever returned in Chicago."

John Morton, Homeland Security assistant secretary for ICE, said the charges represent "a significant step in breaking down the infrastructure of these criminal organizations."

The indictments were unsealed Thursday and collectively seek confiscation of more than $5.8 billion in drug money. The indictments also describe seizures throughout the investigation period of more than $22.6 million in cash.