Mistrial Declared for Nogales Rancher in Migrant's Fatal Shooting
A summary of the main news from the U.S. - Mexico border
Mistrial Declared for Nogales Rancher in Migrant's Fatal Shooting
Emily Bregel, Arizona Daily News.- In Nogales, Arizona, a mistrial was declared in the trial of rancher George Alan Kelly, who faced second-degree murder charges for the fatal shooting of Gabriel Cuen-Buitimea, a migrant crossing his property. After 16 hours of deliberation, the jury remained deadlocked, unable to reach a unanimous decision. The incident occurred on January 30, 2023, when Kelly allegedly used an AK-47 against a group of migrants. The court has scheduled a status hearing to decide on a potential retrial. Kelly’s defense argued he fired warning shots in self-defense, while prosecutors highlighted inconsistencies in his accounts of the event.
Chicago's Black Neighborhoods Feel Overlooked Amid Migrant Aid Rush
Matt Brown, AP- In Chicago, the reopening of Wadsworth Elementary School as a migrant shelter has sparked significant resentment among local Black residents. These communities feel neglected, observing that city and government resources are swiftly allocated to assist migrants with housing, healthcare, and education, while long-standing local needs remain unaddressed. Since 2022, Chicago has expended over $300 million to support the influx of 38,000 migrants, mostly from Latin America. This rapid mobilization of funds contrasts sharply with the historical underinvestment in Black neighborhoods, exacerbating tensions and highlighting disparities in resource distribution. This situation is stirring debate about equity and the prioritization of newcomers over established residents facing ongoing challenges like crime and homelessness.
INM Halts Migrant Train in Samalayuca Desert, Leaving 400 Without Essentials
Veronica Martinez, La Verdad Juarez.- The National Migration Institute (INM) stopped a freight train carrying approximately 400 migrants, including children and pregnant women, in the Samalayuca Desert near Ciudad Juárez, leaving them stranded without sufficient water or food. This action took place at a military checkpoint at kilometer 321 on the highway to Chihuahua. Human rights organizations, such as Human Rights Integral in Action (DHIA), criticized the move for exposing vulnerable individuals to harsh desert conditions and violating their right to free movement. Advocates are calling for immediate assistance and an end to these interventions, which they claim are part of a deliberate state policy that contributes to a humanitarian crisis.
Two Properties Seized from Former Official, One Occupied by Mayor
Circuito Frontera.- In Chihuahua, Mexico, anti-corruption agents seized two properties tied to former official Daniel Simón Pando Morales, amid investigations into illicit enrichment and corruption. One of the properties is currently inhabited by the mayor on leave, Cruz Pérez Cuéllar. The seizures, executed under judicial warrant, aim to prevent any actions compromising the ongoing investigation. This crackdown follows allegations that emerged from civic and media scrutiny, emphasizing the authorities' commitment to tackling corruption while adhering to legal standards and ensuring due process.
El Gordo," Linked to "Los Chapitos," Faces U.S. Court on Drug Charges
Carlos Alvarez, Zeta weekly. Luis Felipe López Zamora, alias "El Gordo," an alleged operator for "Los Chapitos," appeared in the Eastern District of California's federal court on charges of trafficking fentanyl pills, cocaine, and methamphetamine, as well as money laundering. Captured in Tijuana, López Zamora, 28, was part of a narcotics operation based in Sacramento, working alongside his brother, José López-Zamora. The indictment includes several counts of drug trafficking and a conspiracy to launder money, with potential life sentences if convicted. The charges highlight ongoing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks linked to major Mexican cartels.