In a landmark ruling, former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez has been sentenced to 45 years in a United States prison and fined $8 million for his pivotal role in a vast drug trafficking operation. Hernandez, who served as president from 2014 to 2022, was accused by U.S. prosecutors of running a “narco-state” that facilitated the smuggling of over 400 tons of South American cocaine into the U.S.
US District Judge Delivers Verdict
US District Judge Kevin Castel, who presided over the case, highlighted Hernandez’s extensive involvement in the drug trade. “He provided police and military support, aiding the transport of drugs valued at $10 billion to the United States,” said Judge Castel during the sentencing. Hernandez, 55, faced charges that included federal drug and weapons violations. In March, he was found guilty in a U.S. federal court on three counts, encompassing cocaine importation and weapons offences. Prosecutors detailed how Hernandez built his political career on bribes from traffickers, offering them protection from extradition and prosecution.
Early involvement in drug trade
Hernandez’s entanglement with drug traffickers began as early as 2004, during his tenure as a congressman in Honduras. According to a U.S. Department of Justice press release, he accepted bribes from traffickers in Honduras, Mexico, and other countries in exchange for political favours and protection.As Hernandez’s political career progressed, so did his involvement in the narcotics trade. Upon becoming president in 2014, he reportedly used his office to expand his drug empire. Hernandez is alleged to have collaborated with major drug trafficking organizations, including the notorious Sinaloa Cartel, to facilitate the transport of cocaine through Honduras to the U.S.
Abuse of Presidential Powers
Despite presenting himself publicly as a staunch opponent of drug trafficking, Hernandez was deeply involved with and protective of traffickers who supported him. He manipulated extradition processes, ensuring some traffickers remained in Honduras while others were sent to the U.S. Hernandez also exploited Honduran institutions, notably the police and military, to safeguard his drug trafficking operations.
Violence and Murder Linked to Drug Empire
Reports indicate that Hernandez’s drug empire was linked to over 130 murders, including those of rival traffickers and individuals who posed a threat to his operations. His brother, Juan Antonio “Tony” Hernandez, was similarly convicted in the U.S. for cocaine trafficking. Numerous individuals connected to these operations faced torture, disappearance, and unknown fates.
Final Sentence and Charges
Hernandez’s conviction encompasses three major counts: importing cocaine into the U.S. (carrying a sentence of 10 years to life in prison), using machine guns and destructive devices in the drug trade (resulting in an additional 30 years), and conspiring to use and carry machine guns and destructive devices in the drug trade (which could lead to life imprisonment). The case against Juan Orlando Hernandez marks a significant victory in the U.S. government’s ongoing battle against international drug trafficking, shining a light on the corruption and violence that fueled his political ascent and reign.