Federal authorities have arrested Carlos Paez Pereda, a high-ranking leader within the Sinaloa Cartel, in San Diego, California. Pereda, also known as "Carlitos" or "Carlitos Rugrats," is accused of orchestrating a reign of terror as a violent leader for the cartel's "Los Rugrats" faction.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California has charged Pereda with narcoterrorism, conspiracy to launder money, and multiple counts of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Officials stated that Pereda allegedly fueled the drug crisis by trafficking deadly drugs into the United States and employing violence and intimidation to protect his criminal enterprise.
According to the indictment, Pereda’s organization relied on murder, kidnapping, and armed enforcers to maintain power and ensure the continued flow of drugs into the U.S.
Prior to his arrest, Pereda had been considered “armed and dangerous,” with an FBI wanted notice issued in March. He had reportedly posted photos online showcasing his arsenal, including assault rifles he referred to as his "3 fav," alongside images of cash and firearms adorned with gold plating and personalized engravings.
FBI San Diego Field Office Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily stated that the "Los Rugrats" division has been responsible for brutal violence in Mexico that extends into the United States, contributing to a constant influx of dangerous drugs.
Pereda allegedly led drug network operations and distribution for the Mayo Zambada faction of the Sinaloa Cartel and acted as an enforcer, commanding armed fighters and hitmen to carry out violent acts. He is also accused of managing the drug corridor between Sinaloa and Tijuana, facilitating the importation of vast quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, and laundering hundreds of millions of dollars in drug proceeds over the past decade.
Most recently, Pereda reportedly provided financial support, weapons, fighters, and logistical aid to the Los Mayos faction in a conflict against the "Los Chapitos" faction of the Sinaloa Cartel. The U.S. Attorney's Office highlighted this indictment as a result of efforts to dismantle Mexican cartels, noting it was a direct consequence of a Trump executive order designating the Sinaloa Cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
