Texas Man Arrested Twice for Threatening Cops, Claiming Cartel Ties—
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
Cartel-linked threats against law enforcement raise alarms about the growing risk of violence spilling across the border.El Paso Today
A 25-year-old Texas man was arrested twice after allegedly threatening to harm sheriff’s deputies and their families, claiming to be a high-ranking member of a Mexican drug cartel. Jon Christian Orozco was first arrested on April 10 in El Paso for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, during which he made threats to ‘green light’ the officers, a term used by criminal organizations to authorize assault or murder. Orozco was arrested again on April 16 after a judge found probable cause to issue an additional warrant for obstruction or retaliation regarding threats made against a second deputy.
Why it matters
This case highlights the growing threat of cartel-related violence and intimidation spilling over the border into the United States, as well as the challenges law enforcement face in dealing with suspects who claim powerful criminal organization ties. The alleged threats against deputies and their families also raise concerns about the safety of public servants.
The details
During the initial traffic stop on April 10, deputies said they smelled alcohol on Orozco and arrested him on suspicion of DWI. While being taken into custody, Orozco allegedly threatened the deputies and their loved ones, telling two officers that ‘he could place a green light’ on both of them – a term used by criminal groups to signify authorization for an individual to be assaulted or killed. Orozco also claimed to be a ‘high-ranking cartel member’ and suggested he might have an active warrant for attempted murder involving a U.S. Marshal. He was initially booked on a $12,500 bond, but was arrested again on April 16 after a judge found probable cause to issue an additional warrant for obstruction or retaliation regarding threats made against a second deputy, with a separate $10,000 bond.
On April 10, Orozco was first arrested during a traffic stop in El Paso.
On April 16, Orozco was arrested again after a judge found probable cause for additional charges.
The players
Jon Christian Orozco
A 25-year-old Texas man who was arrested twice for allegedly threatening to harm sheriff’s deputies and their families, claiming to be a high-ranking member of a Mexican drug cartel.
El Paso County Sheriff’s Office
The law enforcement agency that arrested Orozco and charged him with additional crimes related to his threats against deputies.
Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What they’re saying
“He could place a green light on both of them.”
— Jon Christian Orozco
“Enjoy their last weeks because it was going to be over.”
— Jon Christian Orozco
What’s next
Orozco is being held on separate $12,500 and $10,000 bonds. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the threats and his alleged cartel ties.
The takeaway
This case highlights the growing threat of cartel-related violence and intimidation spilling over the border into the United States, as well as the challenges law enforcement face in dealing with suspects who claim powerful criminal organization ties. The alleged threats against deputies and their families also raise concerns about the safety of public servants on the job.
