Convicted drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman has written a letter to the federal judge overseeing his case, requesting permission for his wife and young daughters to visit him at the United States Penitentiary Florence, a supermax prison in Colorado. The handwritten letter, obtained by CBS News, details Guzman's desire to see his family despite serving a life sentence plus 30 years for murder conspiracy and drug charges. Guzman is currently incarcerated in the notorious prison, known for its isolation and remote location.

The letter, filed on Friday and translated for the court, states Guzman's plea for the judge to authorize a visit from his wife, Emma Coronel Aispuro, and their twin daughters. Aispuro herself was sentenced to three years in prison for her involvement in Guzman's criminal enterprise, which amassed billions of dollars. She also played a significant role in planning Guzman's escape from a high-security prison in Mexico in 2015, utilizing an elaborate underground tunnel.

According to Guzman, the prosecutors opposed Aispuro's visitations during his trial in New York due to concerns that she may pass threatening messages to witnesses. However, Guzman argues that all conversations during visits are recorded, rendering such concerns baseless. Aispuro's sentencing included her request for a punishment that would allow her to witness her twin daughters growing up.

Guzman further explains in his letter that his daughters are attending school in Mexico and would only be able to visit him during vacation periods, up to three times a year. He adds that his wife would be the sole visitor as his mother and sisters do not possess travel visas. Guzman anticipates that Aispuro will be able to visit him after September 13, 2023, once her detention ends and she regains her freedom to travel anywhere in the country.

In June, Aispuro was transferred from federal prison to community confinement, a move confirmed by the Bureau of Prisons. The Bureau also stated that Aispuro is scheduled for release in mid-September. Meanwhile, Guzman's lawyer, Jeffrey Lichtman, asserts that his client has been denied visitation with his wife due to security concerns. Lichtman believes that Guzman should be allowed to see his children and wife, emphasizing the importance of family connections.

When contacted for comment, the Bureau of Prisons declined to discuss specific visitation matters or potential restrictions imposed on Guzman. Their spokesperson emphasized the agency's commitment to privacy, safety, and security for all individuals in their custody. Guzman's plea for a family visit, however, continues to underscore his desire for connection and support while enduring his life sentence in the supermax prison.