Francisco “Pancho” Aviles-Perez

Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine; Distribution of Cocaine and Marijuana; Possession With Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Heroin; Conspiracy to Money Launder; Laundering of Monetary Instruments; Aiding and Abetting; Failure to Report Transportation of United States Currency in Excess of $10,000; Structuring of Financial Transactions to Avoid Reporting Requirements.Francisco “Pancho” Aviles-Perez, a Mexican national suspected of distributing cocaine, heroin and marijuana in the U.S., was extradited last Wednesday to face federal charges. Avilez-Perez was indicted in 2002 on charges of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, distribution of cocaine and marijuana, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, aiding and abetting and money laundering.
Aviles-Perez’s indictment was a result of a two-year investigation that netted more than 130 total indictments. He is considered by prosecutors to be the lead defendant among 16 people described as some of the most significant players in the drug cartel. More than $3 million worth of cocaine was seized during the investigation and resulting arrests.
In 1984, Aviles-Perez was tried and convicted in U.S. District Court of one count of conducting a continuing criminal enterprise, six counts of possessing and distributing heroin and two counts of using a telephone in furtherance of a narcotics felony.[6] Following a ten-year term of imprisonment, he was deported to Mexico where prosecutors believe he coordinated drug shipments from Mexico to various U.S. states, including California, Alaska and others
After several years of evading arrest, DEA agents finally pinpointed Avilez-Perez’s whereabouts in Mexico and Mexican authorities promptly arrested him near his home in Sinoloa.
If convicted Avilez-Perez faces a maximum of life imprisonment.