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Manhattan Jails Cartel Official Over $100K Bribes, Mexico Demands Trial

5/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Gerardo Merida Sanchez, chief, appeared in Manhattan court on May 15 2026 and was jailed pending bail.
He is charged with receiving at least $100,000 monthly bribes from Los Chapitos to tip off raids and aid smuggling.
Mexico reported he entered the United States (U.S.) from Hermosillo on May 11 and was detained by U.S. Marshals at Nogales.
President Claudia Sheinbaum said cartel-linked officials must be tried in Mexico, citing dignity.

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Story summary

Gerardo Merida Sanchez, chief, appeared in Manhattan court on May 15 2026 and was jailed pending bail.
He is charged with receiving at least $100,000 monthly bribes from Los Chapitos to tip off raids and aid smuggling.
Mexico reported he entered the United States (U.S.) from Hermosillo on May 11 and was detained by U.S. Marshals at Nogales.
President Claudia Sheinbaum said cartel-linked officials must be tried in Mexico, citing dignity.