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. Tabares-Martinez was arrested in Guatemala and extradited to the United States.
U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg emphasized the commitment of his office to combat dangerous cartels: “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.” He also sent a warning to cartel members: “We will find you and bring you here to face justice.”
Jae W. Chung, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division, highlighted the DEA's focus on community safety: “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, commented on the efforts against criminal organizations: “We will relentlessly pursue and dismantle cartels and criminal organizations that threaten our communities with deadly drugs.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, Tabares-Martinez orchestrated drug sales within the United States while residing in Mexico as a mid-level member of LNFM. He facilitated transactions involving methamphetamine and cocaine transportation routes from Colombia to Atlanta.
Chief United States District Judge Leigh Martin May sentenced Tabares-Martinez earlier today. His conviction followed a guilty plea made on January 13, 2025.
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 the case as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative.
The David G. Wilhelm Atlanta OCDETF Strike Force focuses on dismantling transnational organized crime syndicates in Georgia.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, aiming at eliminating cartels and protecting communities from violent crime perpetrators.
For more information, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office or visit their website.