Mexican brothers Ovidio and Joaquín Guzmán, accused of drug trafficking like their father "El Chapo" Guzmán, have been in talks with the federal prosecutor's office in Chicago; however, the terms of these negotiations are still unknown, their defense confirmed on Monday.
A possible deal between these brothers, known as "the Chapitos", and the prosecution could involve them pleading guilty and cooperating with authorities in exchange for a reduction in their sentences, following the pattern of other drug traffickers who have faced justice in the United States. Ovidio Guzmán, 34, faces charges that include conspiracy to distribute drugs, being part of a criminal enterprise, and other illicit activities, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
His brother Joaquín, 38, has also been charged with drug trafficking, money laundering, and violations of firearm laws, charges to which he has pleaded not guilty. In a recent hearing, Ovidio stated that there was no conflict in both being represented by the same attorney, Jeffrey Lichtman.
Ovidio, also known as "El Ratón", appeared in a federal court in Chicago, where his case was discussed for 15 minutes as part of the legal process against him. In 2023, he was extradited to the United States and has been in custody of authorities since then.
The brothers' attorney, Lichtman, reported that negotiations with the prosecution are just beginning and that so far there have been no objections from the Government regarding his representation of both brothers. Although it has not been confirmed that the cases of the brothers will be handled jointly, the judge has summoned both for the next hearing in January.
Prosecutor Andrew Erskine indicated that the parties are in preliminary talks to resolve the case before trial, and more information about a potential deal is expected at the next hearing. The Guzmán brothers remain in U.S. custody, and their transfer to the prison in Chicago was made for security reasons.
