(HOUSTON) – A man wanted for murder and racketeering in Indiana between 2015 and 2018, has been caught in Mexico and returned to the United States to face trial, said the FBI Indianapolis office. Juan Alberto Mendez, 47, was arrested in Mexico, and returned to the U.S. last week.
In February, the FBI in San Antonio put up a $25,000 reward for Mendez’s arrest. They believe he’s a member of the Gulf Cartel, and is responsible for the flow of drugs and killings in both Indiana and Texas.
On May 11, 2018, the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, issued a federal arrest warrant after Mendez was charged with conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, murder in aid of racketeering and kidnapping resulting in death, said a news release from the FBI.
On Sept. 23, 2015, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana, Fort Wayne, issued a federal arrest warrant after Mendez was charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute Schedule I controlled substance – heroin, Schedule II controlled substance – cocaine, Schedule I controlled substance – marijuana, and forfeiture.
Cooperation between the Houston and Indianapolis FBI offices and the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, is being partially credited with Mendez’s capture.
He’s already had his first court appearance and now faces a detention hearing.
