Story perspectives

Governor, Mayor Quit Amid U.S. Cartel Bribe Charges

5/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor Rubén Rocha Moya and Culiacán mayor Juan de Dios Gámez Mendívil left their posts, losing immunity, and denied U.S. indictment accusing them of protecting the Sinaloa cartel and taking bribes, pledging cooperation with investigation.
Congress appointed interim governor Yeraldine Bonilla Valverde to replace Rubén Rocha Moya during his leave.
President Claudia Sheinbaum said officials found guilty would be tried in Mexico, not the United States, and that the attorney general’s office will not arrest the accused pending the investigation.

History

Historical Context

In 2004 Congress stripped Interior Secretary Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who later enjoyed an 84% approval rating, of immunity, a move the courts later allowed him to run despite, and the issue resurfaced in 2006 during the presidential controversy, a precedent echoed by the U.S. indictment of Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, mayor Juan de Dios Gámez, and the Sinaloa cartel, reinforcing Mexico’s claim to try senior officials domestically.

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Story summary

Governor Rubén Rocha Moya and Culiacán mayor Juan de Dios Gámez Mendívil left their posts, losing immunity, and denied U.S. indictment accusing them of protecting the Sinaloa cartel and taking bribes, pledging cooperation with investigation.
Congress appointed interim governor Yeraldine Bonilla Valverde to replace Rubén Rocha Moya during his leave.
President Claudia Sheinbaum said officials found guilty would be tried in Mexico, not the United States, and that the attorney general’s office will not arrest the accused pending the investigation.

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