Defense attorneys for defendants accused of trafficking drugs inside Puerto Rico's state prisons, including convicted murderer Jensen Medina Cardona, have asked to inspect four correctional facilities where federal authorities say the organization known as "Los Tiburones" or "Grupo 31" operated: Guerrero prison in Aguadilla, Las Cucharas in Ponce, Bayamón 501, and Guayama 1000. The request, filed in May, caused a delay in a hearing scheduled for last Thursday after federal prosecutors filed a late request for time to respond. About 34 people are charged in the case, which dates to December 2024.
Medina Cardona was sentenced in 2022 to 129 years in prison for the murder of Arellys Mercado Ríos in Fajardo over a dispute involving a cellphone. The group is accused of trafficking fentanyl, suboxone, heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and synthetic marijuana, allegedly using drones, mail, and family visits to smuggle substances into prisons, hiding drugs in items like PlayStation consoles, remote controls, food, microwaves, fans, and ice bags. Defense lawyers argue prison conditions and security controls are central to understanding the alleged conspiracy.
Federal prosecutor María L. Montañez Concepción requested until June 19 to respond, denying any intent to delay proceedings. Defendants then jointly filed a motion asserting their rights.