Former high-ranking DEA agent accused of conspiring to traffic drugs and launder millions of dollars for a Mexican cartel

OG article by Kara Scannell

December 8, 2025

A former high-ranking Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent, Paul Campo, who retired in 2016 after nearly 25 years of service, has been indicted on federal charges for conspiring to traffic drugs and launder millions for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), recently designated a foreign terrorist organization. Campo, along with associate Robert Sensi, allegedly converted cash to cryptocurrency to buy 220 kilograms of cocaine worth $5 million and laundered $750,000 in drug proceeds. Prosecutors claim they agreed to handle at least $12 million for the cartel. Campo pleaded not guilty and was detained. The indictment details meetings with a confidential source posing as a cartel member, where Campo flashed his DEA badge and discussed money movement strategies like real estate investments and bulk cash smuggling. As deputy chief of the DEA’s Office of Financial Operations, Campo oversaw money laundering efforts. Key events include a Tampa meeting agreeing to launder $12 million starting with $200,000, and cryptocurrency transfers to an IRS-controlled wallet. Charges include narco-terrorism conspiracy, narcotics distribution conspiracy, material support to CJNG, and money laundering. This case highlights potential corruption within anti-drug agencies, raising questions about internal oversight and cartel infiltration tactics. Authorities emphasize the irony of a veteran agent allegedly aiding the very organizations he once fought against.