PHOENIX, Ariz. (KVOA) - Jose Guadalupe Tapia-Quintero, 54, from Sinaloa, Mexico, has pleaded guilty to charges of Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine with Intent to Import into the United States and Conspiracy to Commit Concealment Money Laundering. His sentencing is set for Feb. 2, 2026.

Tapia-Quintero was a leader in the Sinaloa Cartel from Dec. 2006 to Mar. 2012. He admitted to organizing the transportation and distribution of methamphetamine for importation into the U.S.

He also managed the concealment of drug sale proceeds, storing them in stash houses in Arizona and elsewhere before sending them back to Mexico.

“This case is a great example of our partnership with DEA in targeting, prosecuting, and convicting the members of the Sinaloa Cartel operating deep within Mexico,” sa

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