By Trend News Line 2024-07-02 20:30:05.
Juan Nicolas Pachay Lopez Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking Charges
Juan Nicolas Pachay Lopez, a 40-year-old man from Manta, Ecuador, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, and possession with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. Pachay Lopez now faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison on each count.
Details of the Arrest
The arrest of Pachay Lopez took place on February 24, 2024, when the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter MUNRO encountered an unnamed four-engine go-fast vessel (“GFV”) approximately 580 nautical miles southwest of Acapulco, Mexico. The Coast Guard drone observed three individuals on board the vessel, which was laden with packages and fuel drums. Despite warnings from the Coast Guard helicopter, the GFV failed to stop, prompting the firing of warning shots. Eventually, Coast Guard law enforcement personnel boarded the vessel and discovered 33 bales containing 1,725 kilograms of cocaine.
Investigation and Prosecution
The case was investigated by the United States Coast Guard and the Panama Express Strike Force, a part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF program is a multi-agency effort aimed at disrupting and dismantling high-level criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking. Assistant United States Attorney David W.A. Chee is prosecuting the case against Pachay Lopez.
Background of Juan Nicolas Pachay Lopez
Born in Manta, Ecuador, Pachay Lopez had no prior criminal record before his involvement in the drug trafficking incident. Described as the vessel master, he was one of the crewmen aboard the GFV when it was intercepted by the U.S. Coast Guard. The sudden turn of events has shocked many in his hometown, where he was known as a hardworking and respected member of the community.
Next Steps
A sentencing date for Pachay Lopez has not yet been set, but he now faces the prospect of spending a significant portion of his life behind bars. The guilty plea marks a significant development in the case, highlighting the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking in international waters. As the legal proceedings continue, the impact of Pachay Lopez’s actions on his family and community remains to be seen..
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