U.S. judge Brian Cogan has ordered special protection measures be taken to protect the members of the jury sitting at the trial of cartel boss Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán Loera , following the "strong and credible" arguments provided by federal prosecutors.
According to the judge's order, the identities and personal information of the future members of the jury will be shielded from the press and parties. Moreover, the jury members will be transported to and from the courthouse by federal marshals and will remain hidden from the public eye while at the venue.
Cogan said that while Guzmán Loera is not accused of a specific violent crime, the “record of violence” executed to his name or under his orders is enough grounds to protect the identities of the jury, particularly as the accused is facing charges for the kidnapping and murder of witnesses in previous legal proceedings against him.
The defense of El Chapo, led by attorney Eduardo Balarezo, argued the anonymity of the jury would undermine Guzman's presumption of innocence.
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