South Texas Residents Charged in Cartel Conspiracy: A Closer Look at the Operation
Introduction
In a significant crackdown on drug cartel activities, two family members from South Texas have been charged with conspiring to support the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), a group recently designated as a foreign terrorist organization. The charges stem from a comprehensive investigation led by U.S. immigration and law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS CI), along with help from Customs and Border Protection and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The Accused: Background
The individuals implicated in this case are Maxwell Sterling Jensen, age 25, from Draper, Utah, and James Lael Jensen, age 68, from Sandy, Utah. According to a superseding indictment returned on May 22, both men allegedly conspired to provide financial support to the CJNG through illicit monetary transactions. This case showcases the ongoing threat posed by such cartels and the need for stringent measures to combat their activities.
The Allegations
Material Support and Money Laundering
The indictment charges that the Jensens facilitated material support for the CJNG in the form of U.S. currency. The CJNG was notably designated as a foreign terrorist organization on February 20. Not stopping at financial support, the Jensens are also accused of conducting financial transactions aimed at concealing the origins of illegally smuggled goods, specifically crude oil. By doing so, they allegedly violated the Tariff Act concerning the fraudulent entry of around 2,881 shipments of crude oil.
Operation Arroyo Terminals
The Jensens operated an enterprise called Arroyo Terminals, located in Rio Hondo, Texas. This facility has been linked to large-scale criminal activities, including substantial financial transactions associated with the smuggling and laundering of crude oil—one of the primary revenue streams for Mexican drug cartels.
Statements from Prosecutors
U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei emphasized the seriousness of the accusations, stating, "This case underscores the more aggressive and innovative approach we are taking towards combatting the scourge of drug cartels." The focus, he noted, extends beyond mere traffickers to include their enablers and accomplices.
Collaboration Among Agencies
Craig Larrabee, Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations in San Antonio, reiterated the dangers posed by illicit relationships between U.S. businesses and foreign terrorist organizations. “Through strong collaborations and relentless investigative work, we and our partners exposed a possible large-scale operation that allegedly attempted to move millions in illicit crude oil.”
William Kimbell, acting Special Agent in Charge of DEA – Houston, remarked on the evolving nature of drug investigations, stating that what began as a drug trafficking investigation escalated into a multifaceted case involving complex criminal operations generating significant profits.
Seizures and Financial Implications
During the initial arrests, authorities seized notable assets, including four tank barges filled with crude oil, three commercial tanker trucks, and vehicles associated with the Arroyo Terminal operations. The superseding indictment also seeks a $300 million money judgment upon conviction of the Jensens.
Potential Sentences
If convicted, both Maxwell and James Jensen face severe legal repercussions:
- Conspiracy to provide material support and money laundering could result in up to 20 years in prison.
- Aiding and abetting the smuggling of goods might lead to an additional 10 years and 5 years, respectively.
- James Jensen faces extra charges related to money laundering, which could incur another 10 years.
The fines attached to these charges can be substantial, up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved.
Operation Take Back America
These arrests are part of a broader initiative called Operation Take Back America, which aims to dismantle the operations of violent cartels and transnational criminal organizations across the country. This initiative streamlines efforts from various law enforcement agencies to repel illegal immigration and combat organized crime.
Prosecutors Handling the Case
Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Sturgis and Laura Garcia from the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case, alongside AUSA Mary Ellen Smyth and Tyler Foster, who are addressing the seizure and forfeiture matters.
Conclusion
These serious allegations against the Jensens highlight the intricate web of financial crimes linked to drug cartels. It serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against organized crime and the various strategies employed by law enforcement to combat such deeply entrenched issues. As investigations continue, authorities aim to hold all involved parties accountable and protect communities from the ramifications of these criminal enterprises.
For further updates and information about operations against drug cartels, check out these resources: DEA, FBI, ICE.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
