Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez was found guilty in a New York federal court of conspiring with drug traffickers to smuggle cocaine into the United States. The jury's verdict, which came after a two-week trial, included charges of conspiring to import cocaine and two weapons counts. Hernandez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years in prison, with a potential maximum of life. Sentencing is scheduled for June 26.
Hernandez, who served two terms as Honduras' president, showed little emotion as the verdict was read in court. Outside the courthouse, around 100 of his opponents celebrated the outcome with applause and cheers.
During the trial, witnesses testified that Hernandez had collaborated with drug traffickers since 2004, accepting bribes as he climbed the political ladder in Honduras. Hernandez denied personally taking bribes but acknowledged that drug money was prevalent in the country's political landscape.
Prosecutors accused Hernandez of aligning himself with major drug cartels to facilitate the transportation of large quantities of cocaine to the U.S. Hernandez's defense argued for his innocence, claiming he had been wrongfully charged and pointing out his efforts in combating drug trafficking.
Despite his claims of innocence, witnesses testified that Hernandez had close ties to notorious drug lords, including Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. His brother, Juan Antonio “Tony” Hernandez, is already serving a life sentence for drug-related charges.
Following the verdict, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized the importance of holding corrupt politicians accountable, stating that Hernandez had chosen personal gain over serving his country. Hernandez plans to appeal the conviction.
The trial shed light on the pervasive influence of drug money in Honduran politics and the challenges faced in combating drug trafficking in the region. The conviction of a former head of state sends a strong message about the consequences of engaging in criminal activities at the highest levels of government.
