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ILS-NY Staff

"El Mayo” and other High-Profile Drug Trafficking Trials – linguistic challenges

Our experience with International Language Services, Inc. (ILS-NY) leading the translations and linguistic services for some of the most high-profile drug trafficking cases, many of which relate to the Sinaloa cartel, reveals several critical issues that come with prosecuting foreign nationals. As the legal sector braces for yet another telenovela worthy trial following the recent arrest of Ismael "El Mayo" Zambada, these insights are more relevant than ever.


From working with the U.S. Attorney’s Offices that often prosecute these cases, we know that accurate translations are crucial not only for courtroom proceedings but also for the vast amounts of intercepted communications and documentation. Our team begins the task of transcribing audios/videos well before the arrest, in some cases up to 12 years before one of the big fish is caught. This material includes both publicly available content and body wires, as well as large amounts of messages, emails, social media content, articles, and legal documents. Nuances, regional dialects, and the intent behind the spoken and written word present significant linguistic challenges. Drug slang, cartel-specific terms, and even generational vernacular, which is ever evolving, can alter the interpretation of crucial evidence and even testimonies.


It is no secret that investing in skilled translators is key when stakes are high. For those who have followed the lengthy and violence-ridden history of drug cartels, the information likely to emerge during this trial will emphasize the importance of having a trusted translation partner who not only provides accurate translations but also helps navigate the complex web of communications and cultural contexts involved.


Our team has assisted government agencies for 31+ years, including the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Department of the Treasury, Department of Defense, among many others.  We are known for providing a full range of linguistic solutions that are available in 125+ various languages, including rare languages.

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