Families of victims killed by drug cartels are urging the Trump administration to classify the Juarez cartel, along with its armed wing La Linea, as a foreign terrorist organization. This designation would align them with six other Mexican cartels already recognized as FTOs.
In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, these American families called on the Trump administration to officially categorize La Linea and the Juarez Cartel as foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs). According to reports, the Juarez Cartel was responsible for the tragic deaths of nine American women and children from the LeBaron family in November 2019, near the New Mexico border.
This request was initially reported by ABC, which also shared that a group member provided a copy of the letter.
“This is about keeping Americans safe—not just our families—but also about seeking justice for all American victims and ensuring that no one is left behind,” the letter stated, as cited by ABC. “We urge the designation of the Juárez Cartel and its armed wing La Línea as FTOs, sending a clear message that the United States will not tolerate the murder of innocent Americans or the fears faced by our community.”
Among the families advocating against cartel violence are the LeBarons, who have long pursued the designation of La Linea and the Juarez Cartel as terrorists. Following the tragic event in 2019, there have been some arrests and convictions by the Mexican government, but officials are accused of downplaying and obscuring the seriousness of the incidents.
Reports indicate that Mexican authorities allegedly mistook U.S. family members for rival groups traveling on the same highways where they were attacked. There’s also concern that efforts were made to cover up the crime by attempting to destroy vehicles and remains.
