Mexico orders that former state attorney general face trial on unusual treason charge

Mexico City (AP) — A federal judge in Mexico has ordered a former Chihuahua prosecutor to stand trial on an unusual charge of treason. César Jáuregui, who previously served as a state attorney general, is accused of unlawfully collaborating with the CIA to dismantle a drug lab in northern Mexico without notifying the federal government.

The operation came to light following the fatal car accident involving two CIA agents and two state officials. Jáuregui's defense attorney, Luis Villegas, confirmed that his client has been ordered to face trial for the treason charge, which was added by federal officials following initial accusations of illegal exercise of public office.

Jáuregui was arrested on October 17. Despite recent attempts, Mexico has not successfully prosecuted a treason charge in decades.