SAN DIEGO AP – A suspected top figure in Mexico’s Arellano Felix drug cartel pleaded guilty to a drug charge Thursday, nearly ending a nine-year legal battle that saw the cartel’s power fade at the hands of authorities and rivals.

Jesus “Chuy” Labra pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 100 kilograms of marijuana and at least 100 grams of cocaine.