Cristian Fernando Gutierrez-Ochoa — the son-in-law of Jalisco New Generation cartel leader "El Mencho" — was arrested in Riverside, California, officials said.

A high-ranking member of a Mexican drug cartel who allegedly faked his own death and has been living in California under a fake name is now facing federal charges, the US Justice Department announced Thursday.

Ochoa, alleged son-in-law of “El Mencho,” the leader of the Mexican Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), was arrested in Riverside.

The Justice Department says a high-ranking member of a Mexican drug cartel accused of faking his own death and living in the U.S. under a fake identity has been arrested on federal charges.

Ochoa, 37, was arrested on Tuesday, Nov. 19, and charged with international drug-trafficking and money-laundering offenses

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco highlighted the significance of the arrest: "The Jalisco Cartel—one of the world's most violent and prolific drug trafficking organizations—is weaker today because of the tenacious efforts of law enforcement to track down and arrest a cartel leader who allegedly faked his own death and assumed a false identity to evade justice and live a life of luxury in California.

Cristian Fernando Gutierrez-Ochoa allegedly coordinated the transportation and distribution of more than 40,000 kilograms of drugs.