Lawyer for Mexico drug lord claims ‘torture’

MEXICO CITY — A lawyer for Mexican drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman said Monday he will argue that his client has been the victim of torture.

Attorney Jose Refugio Rodriguez said the convicted Sinaloa cartel boss’ legal team has submitted evidence of alleged abusive treatment of Guzman in prison.

“Cruel and unusual treatment is torture,” Rodriguez said.

Guzman’s lawyers have complained in the past that he is not being allowed to sleep, mix with other prisoners or receive enough visits. They said that caused him anxiety and elevated his blood pressure to dangerous levels.

The government says special security measures are needed following Guzman’s escape from the maximum-security Altiplano prison near Mexico City in 2015.