by Matthew Russell Lee, Patreon Substack
SDNY EXCLUSIVE, July 2 – After the president of Honduras' brother Tony Hernandez was convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to life plus thirty years, on April 21, 2022 the ex-president himself, Juan Orlando Hernandez, was extradited to the United States.
[Espanol aqui]
On December 19, 2023 as to co-defendant Tigre Bonilla, Judge Castel ruled: "ORDER as to Juan Carlos Bonilla Valladares; The trial of this action has been long set for February 5, 2024. The Court does not anticipate moving that trial date or granting a severance."
It was moved to February 6. After Pineda plead guilty, on February 6 on no notice, and with Inner City Press the only media in the courtroom, Tigre Bonilla pled guilty. Thread
On July 2 Pineda was sentenced, and Inner City Press was the only media there. Thread:
OK - now heading to sentencing of Mauricio Hernandez Pineda, formerly of the Honduras National Police (and cousin of JOH). Pineda wants 15 years; US is asking for 20.
All rise! Judge Castel: I have read Mr. Pineda's letter [Inner City Press has also read it: Pineda says he's teaching Spanish and advising Christians]
Pineda's lawyer Ma: No objection to the Pre-Sentencing Report Ma: Judge Schofield in 2018 sentenced the HNP's Garcia who worked with Lionel Rivera of los Cachiros to 168 months or 14 years. Ludwig Zelaya Romero had lists of sicarios, killed a journalist. He got 144 months or 12 years
Ma: Pineda accepted responsibility - others in this case have filled the air with lies. He has learned English [Pineda is using interpretation headphones] Judge: Does he consent to removal from the US? Ma: He is concerned it would hinder him from getting programs
Pineda: I have been targeted by high officials of this government. I was put in the hole for 271 days. I have been put in with gangs. I've seen people burned with hot water; I've seen two colleagues brutally killed Pineda: This country promotes human rights but I haven't seen it in my case. I feel impotent. When zi am free I want to start an aviary farm to produce eggs in my country-
Judge: This is in your letter Pineda: Thanks you for providing me my 3 lawyers and [person in courtroom]
AUSA: We ask for 20 years. Pineda led other police officers escorting and protecting tons of cocaine. AUSA: Pineda sought to obstruct justice. He warned cooperators against his family members to not cooperate- Judge: Posts on social media? Spray painting? Is this obstruction of justice? AUSA: I understand the Court's skepticism.
Judge Castel: Pineda was a high ranking member of the Honduran National Police, related to 2 other members of the conspiracy. Obstruction enhancement denied. I reject any bad faith in his being put in isolation.
Judge Castel: I sentence Pineda to 180 months in prison [15 years] after which he will almost certainly be deported
More details on X for subscribers here and (SPanish on) Substack here
The case is US v. Diaz Morales, et al., 15-cr-379 (Castel)
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