In the Netflix series “Narcos,” the character of Palma, also known as Ernesto Fonseca Carrillo, is portrayed as a prominent figure in the Mexican drug trade. However, it’s important to note that the show takes creative liberties and may not accurately depict the real-life events surrounding Palma’s life. That being said, let’s explore what really happened to Palma in the context of his criminal activities and legal troubles.
Palma, a Mexican drug lord, was a key member of the infamous Guadalajara Cartel, which operated during the late 1970s and early 1980s. He was a close associate of Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, the founder and leader of the cartel. Together, they built a vast drug empire, smuggling tons of cocaine from Colombia into the United States.
However, their criminal activities eventually caught the attention of law enforcement agencies, leading to a series of events that would change Palma’s life forever. In 1985, Palma was arrested in Mexico on charges of drug trafficking and was subsequently extradited to the United States.
Palma faced trial in the United States and was convicted of drug trafficking charges. He was sentenced to a lengthy prison term and served nine years in the Atwater Federal Prison in California. During his time behind bars, Palma’s influence within the Guadalajara Cartel diminished, and his position in the organization weakened.
After completing his sentence in the United States, Palma was released in 1996 and was expected to return to Mexico. However, upon his arrival, he was immediately arrested by Mexican authorities for his alleged involvement in the double murder of police officers in 1995 in Nayarit.
Palma’s arrest in Mexico marked the beginning of a new chapter in his legal troubles. He was charged with multiple crimes, including drug trafficking, organized crime, and the aforementioned double murder. He was subsequently incarcerated at the Altiplano Prison, located near Mexico City.
It’s worth noting that Palma’s trial and legal proceedings in Mexico have been complex and have faced various delays over the years. The Mexican justice system has been scrutinized for its handling of high-profile cases, and Palma’s case is no exception. The exact details and outcomes of his legal battles in Mexico may vary depending on the sources you consult.
As of now, Palma remains imprisoned at the Altiplano Prison. The specifics of his current situation, including any ongoing legal proceedings or potential future release, are uncertain and subject to the Mexican justice system’s decisions.
Palma’s journey in the world of drug trafficking and criminal activities has been tumultuous. From his rise within the Guadalajara Cartel to his arrest and imprisonment in the United States, followed by his extradition back to Mexico, Palma’s life has been deeply entangled in the web of the drug trade. The Netflix series “Narcos” may offer a fictionalized portrayal of his story, but the reality of Palma’s life is far more complex and continues to unfold within the Mexican justice system.