LEWISTON, N.Y. – On August 3, U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers encountered John Morgan, a U.S. citizen, attempting to cross the border with 237 grams of marijuana. Morgan was referred to secondary inspection at the bridge after the primary officer detected a slight odor of marijuana.
CBP canine Kay at Lewiston port of entry
A CBP Canine Enforcement Officer and canine conducted a free air sniff of the vehicle. The canine, “Kay,” immediately alerted to the suspect’s cooler. Upon searching the cooler, the canine officer discovered a vacuumed sealed package containing a green leafy substance that was hidden under ice and water bottles. The substance tested positive for the presence of marijuana.
The suspect admitted that the marijuana belonged to him, and that the person traveling with him was unaware of the narcotics hidden in the cooler. New York State police arrived at the bridge quickly, and took custody of the suspect and narcotics.
“Although not a large drug seizure, this case highlights the detection capabilities of our highly trained professionals and is another example of CBPs cooperation with federal, state and local partners” said Acting Port Director Mark MacVittie.