In a significant development in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking, two sons of infamous Mexican drug lord “El Chapo” are currently negotiating plea deals with U.S. authorities. Attorneys disclosed on Tuesday during a brief hearing in Chicago that both Ovidio Guzmán López, 34, and Joaquin Guzmán López, 38, are involved in discussions regarding possible settlements for their extensive drug trafficking charges.

Neither Ovidio nor Joaquin appeared in court on the day of the hearing. The potential plea deal for Ovidio was initially mentioned during an earlier court session in October, following the stunning arrest of Joaquin in Texas alongside infamous cartel leader Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada.

U.S. Assistant Attorney Andrew Erskine addressed the court, stating, “We need a bit more time. We’re trying to explore whether there might be a global resolution.” However, further details on the negotiations were not disclosed (Independent).

The Guzmán brothers have reportedly been heading a faction within the Sinaloa Cartel known as the “Chapitos” or "little Chapos." This faction has been singled out as a primary supplier of fentanyl to the United States, leading to a major crackdown by federal prosecutors, which culminated in extensive indictments against many Sinaloa Cartel members in 2023.

U.S. authorities allege that Zambada and Joaquin Guzmán López were complicit in trafficking “tens of thousands of pounds of drugs” into the U.S., accompanied by related violent activities. Notably, Zambada eluded capture for many years and is next scheduled to appear in a courtroom in New York.

The circumstances surrounding the brothers' dramatic July capture remain partly a mystery, igniting speculation about the law enforcement strategies employed. The incident has also led to heightened violence among rival factions within the Sinaloa Cartel, presenting serious public safety issues in Mexico.

As legal proceedings continue, both brothers are scheduled to make their next court appearances soon, with Ovidio Guzmán López expected on February 27 and Joaquin on March 19 (AP News).

Keep track of ongoing updates concerning the Guzmán brothers and their legal plight as this significant case unfolds.