Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Venezuelan Drug Kingpin Sentenced to Life Plus 30 Years

1/14/2026

31 3

Summary

Story summary

Carlos Orense Azocar, a Venezuelan drug kingpin, was sentenced to life plus 30 years in a U.S. court.
U.S. authorities linked him to high-ranking officials and described him as a central figure.
Beginning around 2003, his operation moved cocaine from Venezuela to the U.S. via sophisticated routes and used ranches as storage hubs.
Evidence shows he bribed military and police officials to facilitate trafficking.

1 of 1

Story summary

Carlos Orense Azocar, a Venezuelan drug kingpin, was sentenced to life plus 30 years in a U.S. court.
U.S. authorities linked him to high-ranking officials and described him as a central figure.
Beginning around 2003, his operation moved cocaine from Venezuela to the U.S. via sophisticated routes and used ranches as storage hubs.
Evidence shows he bribed military and police officials to facilitate trafficking.