(NewsNation) — A prominent criminal defense attorney who has represented high-profile cartel members says these clients are often “charming” individuals who understand the consequences of their actions.
Jan Ronis, who has defended figures like drug kingpin “El Chapo’s” daughter, said Saturday on “NewsNation Prime” that cartel members are “human beings” who can be “great parents” or family members despite their alleged crimes.
“Sometimes, overlooking what they’re charged with, they’re human beings,” Ronis said. “If you cut through the surface of their criminality, they’re underneath, they are functioning human beings.”
Ronis emphasized that all defendants, regardless of the charges, are entitled to legal representation. He argued this is something “this nation should be proud of.”
The attorney said he has not feared for his safety while representing cartel members, noting that criminal defendants generally understand the potential out comes of their cases.
“It’s been my experience with all my clients, no matter what they’re charged with … that you represent them fairly and equally, and don’t make any promises of a result,” Ronis said.
He added that cartels operate with “impunity” in areas of Mexico where the federal government has little control.
Ronis has represented several high-profile cartel figures, including the daughter of Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán and Mexican drug lord Benjamin Arellano Flores.
The Sinaloa Cartel, which El Chapo formerly led, remains a dominant force in drug trafficking to the United States, according to recent DEA reports.