NewsNation

El Chapo’s son pleads not guilty to drug, laundering charges

Joaquín Guzmán López, one of El Chapo's sons. (U.S. Department of State via AP)

(NewsNation) — Notorious cartel member and son of “El Chapo” Joaquin Guzman Lopez has pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking charges in Chicago.

Guzman Lopez appeared in court Tuesday, days after his arrest alongside Sinaloa cartel leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada.


He is facing five counts, which include money laundering and firearms charges.

Guzman Lopez was arrested near the Mexican border in El Paso last Thursday alongside Zambada.

Zambada’s attorney says he was tricked by Guzmán López and forced against his will to travel.

El Chapo, real name Joaquin Guzman, founded the Sinaloa cartel in association with Zambada as the pair spearheaded operations until the former was extradited in 2016.

Since, Zambada has taken control of the cartel and, as such, El Chapo’s sons have been at odds with Zambada.