Headline News in LAFebruary, 2014

Drug Lord Captured

Joaquín Guzmán LoeraEl Chapo

Before 2/22/14:Head of Sinaloa CartelMost powerful drug trafficker in the world. (US Dept of Treasury)One of world’s most powerful people 2009-13 (Forbes Magazine)Billionaire—among the richest on the planet (Forbes)

ChildhoodFrom small mountain hamlet in Sierra Madre Mts.Father cattle farmer—involved with poppy productionFamily lifeEducation

CareerJobs scarce—helped fatherAge of 15 grew own crop of marijuanaAge of 20 joined organized crime80s apprentice of Felix Gallardo‘89 in charge of a territory

MethodsUse of tunnelsIncrease in violence Former rules of drug trafficking shatteredIncreased government bribes

Prison1993 captured in Guatemala20 yr-9mth sentenceHis lifestyle in prison2001 escape

Official storyOther theory

13 years on the runBounty—$7 millionHow he managed to evade capture

Sierra Madre MtsPay officialsLegend—Robin Hood FearTunnels

Family Life

3 wives10 children2007 weddingMultiple affairs

February 22, 2014

What next?

Extradition to the US?Increased violence?

Venezuela Protests and Turmoil

February 2014 in Venezuela

Curcial Background/ Key PeopleHugo Chávez, Nicolás Maduro

Henrique Capriles, Leopoldo López

The issues: Rampant Crime

The issues: The economyHigh inflation (56% in 2013)One of slowest growing economies in Latin America in 2013 (International Monetary Fund)Major companies slowing or stopping production/business (Ford, GM, Toyota, major airlines)High unemployment

The issues: Rationing

The issues: Censorship

How and When?

Who? And Where?

Maduro’s responseExpel US

Diplomats Arrest López

Maduro’s response

Riot Police

Paramilitary Intervention

18 Dead, 100s Injured, 800+ arrested

Other Responses

Peace talks—2/26 Court proceedings against LópezArrest of 8 officers Extend “Carnival” holidaySympathy for protestors waning?