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  4. Canines Assist In More Pot Busts

Canines Assist In More Pot Busts

Release Date
Mon, 11/25/2013

TUCSON, ARIZ.—Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents assigned to the Willcox and Sonoita Stations seized a combined 1,104 pounds of marijuana yesterday worth an estimated $550,000.   

The first seizure occurred in Patagonia, Ariz., when a canine team assigned to the Sonoita Station responded to a report of suspicious activity and recovered 829 pounds of marijuana inside of a black Chevrolet Suburban parked behind the Stage Coach Inn.  No suspects were located. 

Later that evening, Willcox Station agents working at the Highway 191 checkpoint north of Sunizona, Ariz., arrested a U.S. citizen after a canine alert and X-ray scan led to the discovery of 274 pounds of marijuana concealed inside steel containers within the tires of a Dodge Dakota.

The U.S. citizen apprehended at the Highway 191 checkpoint is being presented for prosecution.  All drugs and vehicles were processed for seizure in accordance with Tucson Sector guidelines.

Tucson Sector Border Patrol continues to make strides in combating transnational criminal organizations attempting to exploit southern Arizona. Canine teams work in conjunction with agents and technology assets to increase the effectiveness of operations, safeguarding citizens and preventing narcotics from reaching Arizona communities.

Customs and Border Protection also welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous. 

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021