News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 23, 2001

STATEMENT FROM THE DEA ADMINISTRATOR
ON PENDING EXTRADITION OF FABIO OCHOA

"To say the DEA is excited about the prospect that Fabio Ochoa will soon be extradited to the US to stand trial for his drug offenses would be an understatement of great proportions. Fabio Ochoa, the former right hand man of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, is responsible for the destruction of countless lives. His greed and ruthless behavior are unsurpassed, even among the most notorious drug traffickers of the 'Cartel' era. I am pleased with the decision of the Colombian Supreme Court, and applaud the efforts of the brave men and women of the Colombian government, the Colombian National Police, the DEA, and a host of other dedicated workers who have assisted in the investigative and extradition process."

Asa Hutchinson, Administrator, Drug Enforcement Administration