the operation conducted by Mexican marines was interrupted when Penn, accompanied by Mexican soap opera actress, Kate del Castillo, arrived at the El Tuna compound, the New York Post reported.
The marines put the mission on hold so they wouldn’t risk putting the celebrities in danger, according to the paper. But doing so cost authorities the element of surprise and allowed the drug kingpin to escape.
Riley tried to get Penn and del Castillo prosecuted for obstruction, but DEA and Justice Department officials didn’t pursue charges because the actor was protected by serving as a journalist, according to the Post.
El Chapo was finally arrested in 2016. He faces multiple drug and murder conspiracy charges that could put him in prison for life if he's convicted.