U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, John J. Durham, has unveiled a new initiative to tackle the pervasive issue of transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). The recently launched TCO Strike Force in the district will concentrate its efforts on disarming cartels and their leadership, with the backing of an office that has already demonstrated a strong track record in prosecuting high-profile TCOs. Durham, in a statement, showcased his commitment: “Because of my Office’s significant experience and expertise in this area, we have a responsibility to our community and our country to dismantle these ruthless organizations from the top down in order to stop the violence, flow of drugs, and dangers they unleash in our District and across the nation,” as noted by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The Attorney General's memorandum, dated February 5, aligns with President Trump's Executive Order on TCOs such as MS-13 and Tren de Aragua (TdA), providing further strategic direction to the Strike Force. According to the Department of Justice's announcement, the Strike Force's main objectives include prosecuting TCOs—especially their senior ranks—, thwarting their illicit activities such as drug trafficking and terrorism, and seizing assets associated with their criminal proceeds. Moreover, the new task force will synchronize the investigative efforts of various federal law enforcement agencies and deepen partnerships with other Department of Justice components.
Francisco J. Navarro, known for his work on significant narcotics and national security cases, has been chosen as Director of the EDNY TCO Strike Force. He's aided in the prosecution of Rafael Caro Quintero, leader of a criminal enterprise, and has also spearheaded efforts against others such as Ismael Zambada Garcia of the Sinaloa Cartel. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan E. Farrell and Gabriel Park have been appointed Deputy Directors, both bringing their extensive experience in combating organized crime and gang violence to the team.
Building on a history of significant cases against Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs), a new strike force has been launched to disrupt and dismantle the infrastructure of these groups. The task force will focus on a wide range of criminal entities, from powerful Mexican drug cartels to prominent street gangs operating in the Eastern District. In a notable shift, the initiative will combine traditional prosecutions with civil remedies to tackle the full scope of these organizations' illegal operations.
