Colombian Drug Lord Admits to Cocaine Conspiracy in U.S. Court

Involvement in Multi-National Drug Trafficking Scheme Unveiled; Sentencing Set for February 2024

MORRISTOWN, NJ – A confession from Colombian national Raul Orlando Torres Cubides, also known by his alias "Jose Jota," details a vast operation to import significant amounts of cocaine into the United States. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger reported the development on October 4, 2023.

Torres Cubides, aged 56, recently stood before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas and pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiring to bring more than five kilograms of the illicit drug from countries including Colombia, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic. The indictment reflects the activities that transpired from 2016 to January 10, 2020, during which time Torres Cubides acknowledged holding a managerial position in a drug operation involving over five individuals.

The severity of the charge may land Torres Cubides a mandatory minimum sentence of a decade behind bars. However, he faces the possibility of a life sentence and fines reaching up to $10 million. The court has earmarked the sentencing date for February 22, 2024.

The success in this case is attributed to the collaborative effort of several agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) teams in New Jersey, under the guidance of Special Agent Cheryl Ortiz in Newark. Recognitions extend to DEA teams operating in Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico, as well as the Justice Department's Office of International Affairs and multiple other units.

This investigation and subsequent arrest align with the goals of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF), which targets top-tier criminal groups that jeopardize U.S. security. Further information on OCDETF's mission and actions can be sourced from their official website.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Farhana C. Melo of the OCDETF/Narcotics Unit in Newark stands as the government's representative in this case.