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Former Tijuana Police Chief Returns Amid Controversy

Former Tijuana Police Chief Returns Amid Controversy

Sandra Dibble, Voice of San Diego.- Mayor-elect Ismael Burgueño is bringing back Julian Leyzaola as Tijuana Public Security secretary, despite previous accusations of torture and harsh methods

Border Center
Jun 25, 2024
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Former Tijuana Police Chief Returns Amid Controversy
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Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda with Julian Leyzaola / Photo courtesy of the office of the Governor | Voice of San Diego.

Former Tijuana Police Chief Returns Amid Controversy

Sandra Dibble, The Voice of San Diego.- Julián Leyzaola, Tijuana's notorious former police chief, known for his tough stance during the city's turbulent drug war years, is set to lead the city's police force again. Despite facing accusations of torture and a four-year stint as a fugitive, Leyzaola is being brought back by mayor-elect Ismael Burgueño to serve as Tijuana's public safety secretary. Leyzaola's appointment is contentious, given his polarizing figure—hailed as a hero by some for his crackdown on crime and corruption and criticized by human rights groups for his harsh methods. His return marks a significant moment for Tijuana, reflecting a complex balance between the desire for effective law enforcement and the need for justice and human rights.

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