A former high-ranking agent of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Paul Campo, 61, and his associate Robert Sensi, 75, have been indicted for conspiring to launder millions of dollars and procure military-grade firearms and explosives for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), which the U.S. designated as a foreign terrorist organization in February. The indictment, unsealed in New York, details how the two men were caught in a sting operation involving a law enforcement informant posing as a cartel member.

Campo, who retired from the DEA in 2016 after a 25-year career, and Sensi were charged with agreeing to launder approximately $12 million in drug proceeds and converting around $750,000 into cryptocurrency, believing it would benefit the cartel. They also discussed procuring various weapons, including AR-15 rifles and grenade launchers, and provided payment for cocaine intended for sale in the U.S.

The evidence against them includes recorded conversations, cellphone location data, emails, and surveillance images. Both men pleaded not guilty during their court appearance, with Campo's attorney describing the indictment as sensationalized. Sensi's attorney argued for his release on health grounds, citing multiple medical issues.

The DEA has faced scrutiny in recent years due to several misconduct cases involving its agents, raising concerns about the integrity of law enforcement. The agency has implemented new controls on the use of funds in money laundering operations and warned agents of severe consequences for misconduct. Campo and Sensi are charged with multiple conspiracy counts related to narcoterrorism, terrorism, narcotics distribution, and money laundering.