Racine, Wisconsin, a city known for its factories and farming, became involved in illegal gun trafficking to one of Mexico's major drug gangs, the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), in 2018. Investigations by U. S. federal authorities revealed that members of a local family collaborated with the cartel to purchase and smuggle powerful firearms across the border.
1. Background of Trafficking:
• In 2018, Racine's gun control laws were exploited by the CJNG to acquire high-quality weapons.
• Family members in Racine enlisted friends to buy guns and transport them to Mexico via California.
2. CJNG Network Revelations:
• The Racine trafficking operation was the most prolific network discovered, with more than $600,000 spent on firearms in under a year.
• Internal documents indicate involvement from various states, focusing on semi-automatic rifles and military-style firearms.
3. Key Individuals Involved:
• Jesus Cisneros, a Mexican citizen, was identified as overseeing much of the trafficking network.
• Several individuals, including Victor Cobian and other family members, were charged with gun trafficking offenses.
4. Weapon Specifications:
• High-caliber weapons like Barrett . 50 caliber rifles were key to the operation, known for their effectiveness against armored targets and valued highly on the black market once smuggled into Mexico.
5. Connection to Violence:
• The guns obtained through this trafficking were linked to violent incidents involving CJNG, including a police helicopter downing and numerous attacks on law enforcement.
6. ATF Investigation:
• The ATF initially traced a Barrett rifle back to a Racine shop, Shooters’ Sports Center, leading to further investigations uncovering the broader network.
• Legal actions were initiated against identified traffickers, with ongoing trials set for 2024.
7. Systemic Issues with Gun Trafficking:
• Loose regulations in Wisconsin contrasted with strict gun laws in Mexico, making trafficking easier and highlighting systemic failures in monitoring gun sales.
• Mexican officials demand more U. S. action to curb the flow of arms to cartels.
The gun trafficking ring from Racine to the CJNG represents a significant issue in U. S. -Mexico relations regarding arms control. The findings reveal not only the intricate network that facilitated this illegal trade but also the urgent need for better regulations to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of dangerous criminal organizations. Ongoing investigations and prosecutions highlight the connection between U. S. gun laws and the violence that plagues Mexico due to drug cartels.
https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/mexico-usa-guns/
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