U.S. indicts alleged cartel leader
Times wire report
Article Launched: 04/04/2008 03:03:19 PM MDT


U.S. authorities have indicted a suspected Mexican drug cartel leader who officials believe was one of several men dressed in military uniforms during a high-profile border incident two years ago.
Jose Rodolfo Escajeda (es-ka-HEY-da) was charged with conspiracy to import and distribute controlled substances, John J. Riley of the Drug Enforcement Agency said Friday. Escajeda remains a fugitive.

Officials say the Escajeda Drug Trafficking Organization has been under investigation since 2000.

In January 2006, Mexican authorities identified Escajeda as one of several men appearing to be Mexican soldiers who had crossed the Rio Grande and were helping suspected drug smugglers elude U.S. law enforcement during a chase.

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