A judge has formally charged José Carmen “N,” alias “El Carmelo,” for his alleged involvement in the crime of aggravated extortion in the state of Durango.
The operation was carried out through a coordinated effort involving the La Laguna Special Command, Mexico’s National Defense forces, the National Guard, and the Specialized Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Vice Prosecutor’s Office for the La Laguna Region.
The hearing to determine whether he will be formally bound over for trial is scheduled for August 6.
The victim is an ejidatario whose identity has been withheld.
According to the investigation, on November 29, 2025, at approximately 10:00 a.m., José Carmen allegedly demanded 20,000 pesos per hectare of irrigated farmland belonging to Irrigation Module 05 of the Brittingham Agricultural Users Association, located in the 6 de Octubre community in the municipality of Gómez Palacio.
Authorities allege he demanded the payment in exchange for not cutting off the water supply to local ejidatarios, conduct that constitutes the alleged offense of extortion.
The victim filed a complaint with authorities, leading to the opening of a criminal investigation. Investigators say they gathered sufficient evidence to establish José Carmen’s alleged responsibility.
Prosecutors requested an arrest warrant for aggravated extortion, arguing that José Carmen allegedly used his position as president of the irrigation module to extort farmers. The warrant was approved by a judge and executed on July 2.
The court ordered pretrial detention as a precautionary measure, which will remain in effect for the duration of the judicial proceedings, in accordance with the court’s ruling.
The Durango State Attorney General’s Office also reported that it has multiple additional investigations involving similar allegations against José Carmen that remain under review.
Authorities urged anyone who may have been affected to come forward and file a formal complaint.
Source: excelsior
