Dámaso López Serrano, notorious as El Mini Lic and a former operator of the Sinaloa Cartel, is facing potential deportation to Mexico after his sentencing in the United States for attempting to traffic fentanyl. On February 4, he received a five-year prison term and an additional five years of supervised release. This development comes as he has been a wanted figure in Mexico since 2020 due to his alleged involvement in orchestrating the murder of journalist Javier Valdez in 2017, which cast a shadow over his criminal legacy.

Despite being sentenced, El Mini Lic’s deportation has been complicated by his status as a protected witness, currently preventing Washington from proceeding with his expulsion. The decision now rests with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, specifically its immigration division, which is tasked with evaluating his case. In the broader context, this incident reflects ongoing tensions regarding drug trafficking from Mexico into the United States and the complexities involved in addressing these issues through legal channels.

El Mini Lic is the son of a former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, further entrenching his family within the violent and tumultuous world of organized crime. His potential return to Mexico not only poses questions regarding his safety but also raises concerns about the judicial implications of such high-profile criminals returning to their home countries. The situation highlights the intricate balance that U.S. authorities must navigate when dealing with individuals tied to significant criminal enterprises, especially in the face of continuing violence and corruption in Mexico.