The former President of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández, has been found guilty of drug trafficking by a jury in Manhattan federal court after a two-week trial. Prosecutors alleged that Hernández, during his tenure, conspired with drug cartels to transport over 400 tons of cocaine through Honduras to the United States. In return, he allegedly received millions of dollars in bribes, which fueled his political ascent in Honduras.
Hernández, who served as president from 2014 to 2022, was extradited to the United States in 2022 after completing his second term in office. He faced charges including conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States, conspiracy to possess firearms and destructive devices for drug trafficking, and possession of such weapons during the drug trafficking conspiracy. The maximum sentence for each charge is life in prison.
The Justice Department accused Hernández of using his executive power to protect and enrich drug traffickers within his inner circle, while also cooperating with the extradition of certain traffickers to the US and ensuring the protection of those who paid him and followed his instructions. Prosecutors highlighted the reliance of the drug trafficking conspiracy on the Honduran National Police to safeguard cocaine shipments as they traversed the country.
Throughout the trial, Hernández maintained his innocence and testified in his defence. His lawyer announced plans to appeal the conviction, describing Hernández as disillusioned but resilient.
US Attorney General Merrick Garland condemned Hernández's actions, stating that he had abused his position as president to operate Honduras as a narco-state, where drug traffickers operated with impunity, causing harm to both the Honduran and American people. Garland emphasized the Justice Department's commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks, regardless of how high up the individuals involved may be.