Federal prosecutors say they recently arrested a 51-year-old drug kingpin from just across the border in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.
Court records show that Jorge Luis Castro-Mercado has pleaded not guilty to a dozen counts — including as conspiracy, possession and importation of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
A Tucson grand jury indicted Castro-Mercado in March, and the indictment was sealed.
Federal prosecutors say he was arrested this month while trying to cross the border and enter the U.S.
Prosecutors accuse Castro-Mercado of being the kingpin of a drug trafficking enterprise. He faces life in prison if convicted.
Records show he’s being held pending trial.
More law enforcement news
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A Tucson woman is suing the city of Tempe over its reaction to a social media post that led to the evacuation of City Hall and her arrest. The federal that alleges constitutional rights violations. -
Hundreds of firearms and thousands of ammunition were destroyed on International Firearms Destruction Day at a military base in the Mexican state of Sonora. -
Chandler police on Wednesday arrested a 48-year old doctor from Gilbert on suspicion of sexual assault and abuse last year. Court records appear to show a pattern of behavior with patients. -
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is demanding that automated vehicle developers keep their tech from interfering with police and firefighting activity. -
People have been lining up early — sometimes sleeping there overnight — in hopes of getting a wristband that will allow them access to the courtroom. The 14 coveted seats reserved for the public are first come, first served.
