A federal judge in Miami has sentenced the former leader of one of Colombia's most powerful drug cartels to 45 years in prison.
Diego Montoya, also known as "Don Diego", led the Norte del Valle cartel from 1990 to 2004.
During its heyday, the cartel is believed to have exported more cocaine to the US than any other organisation.
Montoya had pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to import cocaine and obstruction of justice in August.
Apology
In court on Wednesday, Montoya apologised for his role in the cocaine trade, saying that he had "come to the conclusion that there is nothing I could ever do to repair the great harm I have caused".
Diego Montoya, also known as "Don Diego", led the Norte del Valle cartel from 1990 to 2004.
During its heyday, the cartel is believed to have exported more cocaine to the US than any other organisation.
Montoya had pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to import cocaine and obstruction of justice in August.
Apology
In court on Wednesday, Montoya apologised for his role in the cocaine trade, saying that he had "come to the conclusion that there is nothing I could ever do to repair the great harm I have caused".
