Background on Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán
Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán is a notorious Mexican drug trafficker and former cofundator of the Sinaloa Cartel. He was convicted in the United States on charges of narcotráfico and sentenced to life imprisonment in 2019. Guzmán is currently serving his sentence at the ADX Florence, a maximum-security prison in Colorado known as the “Alcatraz of the Rockies,” which houses some of the most dangerous criminals in the United States.
Guzmán gained notoriety for his dramatic escapes from prison in Mexico, including one through a one-kilometer tunnel connecting his cell to freedom. He was extradited to the United States in 2017.
Current Complaint Regarding Communication with His Lawyer
In a handwritten letter to Judge Brian Cogan of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, El Chapo Guzmán expressed his frustration over restrictions on communication with his new attorney, Israel José Encinosa. Despite the judge’s approval three weeks ago for Encinosa to visit, call, or correspond with Guzmán, the cartel leader claims he has yet to receive authorization.
- Letter Details: Guzmán also mentioned that his lawyer has been requesting permission to visit him for approximately ten months, and he has not yet received the two letters Encinosa wrote to him.
- Importance of Communication: Guzmán emphasized that communication with his attorney is “vital” for his defense.
- Previous Complaints: This is not the first time Guzmán has complained about restrictions while incarcerated. He previously denounced psychological torture due to limited sun exposure, restricted communication with other inmates, and non-Spanish speaking guards. He also complained about being denied contact with his daughters and wife, Emma Coronel, who was herself sentenced to three years in prison for narcotráfico and money laundering.
Request for Judge’s Intervention
Guzmán is now asking Judge Cogan to intervene and ensure he can communicate with his lawyer, stating that it is crucial for mounting an effective defense. The letter, dated July 15, was obtained by AFP on Tuesday.
Legal Context
Encinosa began representing Guzmán on July 1, according to a court document signed by the Florida-based attorney. Guzmán has previously sought a new trial, which has been repeatedly denied. His ongoing complaints highlight the challenges faced by high-profile inmates in maintaining effective communication with their legal representation.
