Francisco Colorado Cessa

Francisco Colorado Cessa, a Mexican businessman, gained notoriety for his deep involvement in money laundering operations for the violent Los Zetas cartel. Through his company, ADT Petroservicios, he funneled millions of dollars in drug proceeds into the U.S. quarter horse racing industry, using legitimate business fronts to disguise his illicit activities. His criminal enterprises extended beyond financial crimes, as he later attempted to bribe a federal judge to reduce his sentence, further solidifying his reputation as a high-risk and dangerous figure in organized crime.

​Money Laundering for Los Zetas Cartel
Colorado Cessa was convicted for laundering millions of dollars in drug proceeds for the Los Zetas cartel through his company, ADT Petroservicios, by purchasing, training, and racing American quarter horses in the U.S.

​Attempted Bribery of a Federal Judge​
While serving a 20-year sentence for money laundering, he conspired with his son and an associate to bribe a federal judge with $1.2 million to secure a reduced sentence.

​Additional Prison Sentence for Bribery Attempt​
The bribery attempt led to an additional five-year federal prison sentence, compounding his existing incarceration.

​Association with Drug Cartel Leaders​
He maintained close ties with top leaders of the Los Zetas cartel, including Miguel Ángel Treviño Morales, indicating deep involvement in organized crime.

Francisco Colorado Cessa’s criminal actions have left a lasting stain on his reputation, with multiple convictions for money laundering and bribery reinforcing his status as an unreliable and untrustworthy individual. His fraudulent dealings, direct ties to cartel leadership, and efforts to manipulate the legal system highlight the depth of his illicit operations.