1988    Manuel Noriega is indicted on drug smuggling and money laundering charges.

1989    United States invasion of Panama: The United States sends troops into Panama to overthrow government of Manuel Noriega.

1990    Former leader of Panama Manuel Noriega surrenders to American forces.

1991    The trial of the deposed Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega begins in the United States.

1992    A U.S. Federal Court finds former Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega guilty of drug and racketeering charges. He is sentenced to 30 years in prison.

1992    In Miami, Florida, former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega is sentenced to 40 years in prison for drug and racketeering violations.