The renowned corridos singer Gerardo Ortiz has admitted his guilt of performing concerts for the narco.
According to Rolling Stone magazine, Ortiz pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate a federal law of the United States. This violation places him at the center of a legal case that also involves Ángel Del Villar, CEO of the record label Del Records.
El cantante Gerardo Ortiz
According to the United States Attorney's Office, Ortiz admitted to conducting business transactions with Jesús 'Chucho' Pérez Alvea.
Chucho Perez is a Mexican promoter designated as a drug trafficker under the Kingpin Act.
This regulation prohibits U.S. citizens and companies from establishing business relationships with individuals linked to drug trafficking.
A trial that exposes the links between music and drug trafficking
The case came to light during the trial against Ángel Del Villar, who faces charges for violating the Kingpin Act
According to the Attorney's Office, Ortiz continued working with Pérez Alveadespite warnings from U.S. authorities.
Gerardo Ortiz
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Schwab explained that FBI agents contacted Ortiz in 2018 to inform him of Pérez Alvea's designation. Since he had been formally designated as a drug trafficker and therefore, was subject to U.S. government sanctions.
Despite this notification, Ortiz performed 19 additional concerts for the promoter. Chucho Perez allegedly used these events to launder money for the benefit of Mexican cartels.
Del Villar's influence on Ortiz's decisions
According to information presented at the trial, Ortiz initially considered the possibility of stopping working with Pérez Alvea after receiving the FBI warning.
However, he was reportedly persuaded by Del Villar to continue offering concerts organized by the sanctioned promoter.
This decision not only involved a violation of the Kingpin Act but also exposed Gerardo Ortiz to potential legal and financial sanctions.
Gerardo Ortiz le cantaba a los narcos
Del Records, the record label led by Del Villar, is considered one of the most influential in Mexican music in the United States.
The relationship between Ortiz and Del Villar are key aspects that the Attorney's Office seeks to clarify in the trial.
Legal consequences and cooperation with justice
Ortiz's guilty plea includes his willingness to testify against Del Villar, which could be a determining factor in the development of the case.
According to Rolling Stone, Ortiz faces charges of "conspiracy to conduct transactions with a specially designated drug trafficker," a crime that could carry severe penalties.
El cantante de corridos Gerardo Ortiz
The case also highlights the complex relationship between the music industry and organized crime. Especially in the genre of corridos, known for its connection to stories and characters of drug trafficking.
The participation of artists in events organized by figures linked to organized crime is not a new phenomenon, but this case underscores the legal and ethical implications of such associations.
