California man who co-founded powerful Mexican cartel pleads guilty in U.S.

Erick Valencia Salazar, also known as "El 85," a California man and co-founder of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, has pleaded guilty in the U.S. This plea signifies a significant legal victory against one of Mexico's most powerful criminal organizations. Valencia Salazar formed the cartel with "El Mencho," who was killed by the Mexican army in February, indicating ongoing efforts to dismantle the group's leadership. His guilty plea could provide U.S. authorities with critical intelligence on the cartel's operations and networks.