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Checkpoint Operations Disrupt Cash Smuggling

Release Date
Fri, 05/29/2020

LAS CRUCES, N.M. – U.S. Border Patrol Agents seized more than $36,000 intended for criminal use, May 28.

Agents seized more than $36,000.
Agents seized more than $36,000 from the vehicle.

Las Cruces Border Patrol Station Agents at the I-10 checkpoint west of Las Cruces, New Mexico encountered a silver Hyundai Tucson SUV driven by a 21-year-old female occupant. During the initial interview, the agent detected a strong odor of marijuana emitting from inside the vehicle. The agent referred the vehicle with all five U.S. citizen occupants to secondary for further inspection.

In the secondary inspection area a Border Patrol canine alerted to the possible presence of narcotics. Agents subsequently located 5.5 grams of marijuana hidden in the vehicle. All subjects and the vehicle were released pending further investigation. More than $36,000 were seized due to it being derived from or intended for criminal activity.

“Border Patrol Agents utilizing our specially-trained canines are a vital element in conducting the successful everyday enforcement operations necessary to keep our communities safe from criminal activity,” stated El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez. “Currency that is seized intended for the use of criminal activity is a debilitating blow to the criminal organizations operating within our communities.”

U.S. Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol while remaining anonymous by calling 1-800-635-2509 toll-free.

Please visit www.cbp.gov/newsroom to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at USBPChiefEPT and CBPWestTexas.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Last Modified: Feb 27, 2024