Episode 54: The Rise, Fall and Rebirth of La Familia Michoacana

The short reign of La Familia Michoacana as a key Mexican cartel was distinguished by their rapid growth, violent nature, and "unique" leaders, including the bible carrying Nazario Moreno González, known as El Más Loco ("The Craziest One"), and José de Jesús Méndez Vargas alias El Chango ("The Monkey" or "The Ape"). La Familia long had a fractured power structure which, together with defections to the Knights Templar, precipitated the cartel's demise. In recent years, a new La Familia Michoacana has announced its presence in parts of Mexico City and in Michoacan, where its methamphetamine business may be opposed by CJNG's aggressive growth in that state. This episode explores the rise and fall of La Familia Michoacana, examines its leaders, and details the cartel's rebirth.