Daijiworld Media Network- Florida

Florida, Jun 3: In a harrowing case that has shocked the United States, three drug traffickers in Florida have been handed prison sentences ranging from 20 to 25 years for kidnapping and torturing a rival using hot sauce in a gruesome 18-hour ordeal.

The incident, which occurred on October 12, 2023, involved 25-year-old Mario Espino, who masterminded the kidnapping of Gabriel Leger — a former associate turned competitor in the illegal drug trade. Federal prosecutors revealed that Espino, alongside accomplices Jacob James Guest (24) and Joey Lawrence Eugene Young (25), held Leger hostage while demanding 10 kilograms of fentanyl from his contacts in a cartel.

Court documents revealed disturbing details of the torture: the accused poured hot sauce into Leger’s eyes and rectum while he was bound with zip ties and electrical cords. He was later found in a car’s backseat with a pillowcase over his head and severe injuries.

The trio fled the scene upon the arrival of law enforcement but left behind a shocking stash — 22 kilograms of methamphetamine, 100 grams of fentanyl, a firearm, and over USD 10,000 in cash.

All three accused pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges, including kidnapping, drug trafficking, and possession of a firearm in connection with a drug crime. Joey Young received the harshest sentence at 25 years, followed by Espino with 22.5 years, while Guest was sentenced to 20 years. Guest, although present during the torture, was reportedly less involved in the physical abuse.

Investigators believe the attack was fuelled by Espino’s resentment after being excluded from Leger’s narcotics operations. The case has raised fresh concerns over the violent turf wars associated with illicit drug networks across the U.S.

Authorities have called the case a grim reminder of the escalating brutality in drug-fuelled conflicts and reaffirmed their commitment to cracking down on organized drug crime.