The U.S. Attorney’s Office has requested to postpone the hearing for Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, co-founder of the Sinaloa Cartel, scheduled for Thursday, October 17. It is now proposed to take place on Friday, October 18, at 11:00 AM, due to "logistical reasons" that have been discussed with the Marshals Service, the defense, and Judge Brian Cogan.

Zambada pleaded not guilty on September 13 to 17 charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and drug trafficking. Despite the law in New York that states trials must begin within 60 days of the defendant’s first appearance, Judge James R. Cho has made an exception due to the complexity of the case.

Prosecutor Francisco Navarro described Zambada as one of the most dangerous drug traffickers, involved in acts of violence and bribery. Although the death penalty was abolished in New York in 2004, Zambada could face it if the federal government determines that his crimes are of such severity that they would qualify as terrorism.

The hearing on October 18 will take place just after the sentencing of Genaro García Luna, former Mexican Secretary of Security, who was found guilty of corruption and ties to the Sinaloa Cartel. Zambada’s defense has consented to the change of date, suggesting that he may be present at the new hearing.