Cartel member sentenced to ten years for methamphetamine distribution conspiracy

Pablo Tabares-Martinez, a member of the La Nueva Familia Michoacana drug cartel, has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The 50-year-old was arrested in Guatemala and extradited to the United States.

“The successful extradition and prosecution of Tabares-Martinez reflect my office’s commitment to eliminating dangerous cartels that seek to introduce drugs into our community,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. He added, “This case also sends a strong message to cartel members who transport deadly drugs destined for the Northern District of Georgia: we will find you and bring you here to face justice.”

Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, commented on the investigation, saying it demonstrates "DEA’s commitment to protecting our communities." Chung emphasized that "DEA remains focused on keeping America safe by removing dangerous drugs from our communities and bringing criminals to justice."

Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama, stated that they would "relentlessly pursue and dismantle cartels and criminal organizations that threaten our communities with deadly drugs." He noted that the extradition and conviction of Tabares-Martinez were due to the dedication of HSI and law enforcement partners.

U.S. Attorney Hertzberg provided further details about the case, stating that La Nueva Familia Michoacana (LNFM) is a violent Mexican cartel responsible for significant drug trafficking activities in the United States. On November 16, 2021, Tabares-Martinez arranged a methamphetamine sale in Atlanta. Additionally, he established a cocaine transportation route from Colombia to Atlanta in 2022 and 2023.

Chief United States District Judge Leigh Martin May sentenced Tabares-Martinez earlier today after his guilty plea on January 13, 2025. He will serve ten years followed by five years of supervised release.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Homeland Security with assistance from Guatemalan law enforcement. Assistant United States Attorneys Bethany L. Rupert and Laurel B. Milam prosecuted.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative involving multiple agencies collaborating on operations against significant criminal organizations.

Operation Take Back America supports this effort by using Department of Justice resources against illegal immigration and transnational criminal organizations.

For more information or inquiries, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185.