When Rafael Cedeno, the leader of “The Family” drug cartel in western state of Michoacan was arrested, he told the police he had trained several thousand-cartel members with courses in ethics and personal improvement. The courses he taught his criminal gang were in personal improvement, values, ethical and moral principles. He told them to avoid drugs, hard drinking and maintain family unity.

For those of you who have seen the “God Father” movies, these seem to be the same principles. You may be a criminal engaged in criminal activity but you have to look and act like a law-abiding citizen.

Cedeno said that the point of training was to have better motivational and emotional control over the members. “The Family” has previously portrayed itself as a local organization protecting Michoacan residents from outside drug smugglers, many of whom frequently indulge in drugs or drink. However, this “ethical and moral” drug group is a splinter group from “The Gulf” cartel. They are fighting its former allies for control of territory in Michoacan. This group often leaves gruesome messages next to decapitated heads.

Ironically, Rafael Cedeno was arrested while attending a family baptism.