By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in NJ reported that a Colombian citizen admitted conspiring to import hundreds of kilograms of cocaine into the United States from other countries, including Colombia, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.
U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced that Raul Orlando Torres Cubides, aka “Jose Jota,” 56, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas to count one of an indictment charging him with conspiracy to import five kilograms or more of cocaine.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
According to officials, from 2016 through January 10, 2020, Cubides conspired to import hundreds of kilograms of cocaine.
Authorities say Cubides admitted playing a managerial role in this conspiracy, which involved more than five individuals.
The count to which Cubides pleaded guilty carries a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of life in prison, and a fine of up to $10 million, officials stated.
Officials said sentencing is scheduled for February 22, 2024.