State
Horse trainer in alleged Zetas plot back in court
Posted: Jun 18, 2012 1:31 AM
Updated: Jun 18, 2012 1:31 AM
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) A Texas horse trainer who the FBI says could be targeted by a ruthless drug cartel if released from custody is expected to request his freedom.
Eusevio Maldonado Huitron is due back in an Austin federal court Monday on charges of conspiring to launder money for the Zetas drug cartel. The 48-year-old was arrested last week as part of a nationwide sweep that included two reputed Zetas leaders.
Federal prosecutors say the Mexican cartel used horse racing to launder drug profits in the U.S.
An FBI agent has testified that the Zetas might seek retaliation against Maldonado if he is released on bond.
A search of Maldonado's Bastrop home allegedly turned up a photo of him posing with a brother of Zetas leaders and a winning horse named "Tempting Dash."
