Mexico Extradites to Minnesota on Felony Warrants — Here's How

Yes. Under the U.S.–Mexico Extradition Treaty (1978, in force 1980), Mexico extradites individuals charged with felonies in Minnesota (or any U.S. state) to the United States.

Process

1. Minnesota prosecutor prepares case → DOJ Office of International Affairs (OIA).
2. OIA submits formal request via diplomatic channels to Mexico's Attorney General (FGR).
3. Mexican judge reviews: dual criminality, evidence, treaty compliance, human rights.
4. Secretary of Foreign Affairs (SRE) makes final executive decision.
5. If granted: U.S. Marshals transport fugitive to Minnesota for prosecution.

Key Factors

• Dual criminality: Must be a crime in both countries (felonies qualify).
• Severity: Murder, kidnapping, sexual assault, major drug trafficking, fraud — high priority.
• Death penalty: Mexico requires assurance no death penalty sought (MN abolished it 1911 — not an issue).
• Statute of limitations: Must not have expired in Mexico.

Timeline

Typically 6–24 months from request to surrender. Complex cases (evidence gathering, appeals) can take longer.

Minnesota Specifics

Minnesota prosecutors work with DOJ-OIA and USMS. No special state-level treaty — federal treaty covers all states.