DESERT HAVEN, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents arrest a male subject and seize methamphetamine at U.S. highway 62/180 checkpoint east of El Paso.
On April 30 agents working the checkpoint encountered a vehicle with one occupant. A routine immigration inspection confirmed the driver as a U.S. citizen. A subsequent canine search resulted in a positive narcotic alert.
Agents continued their exam and determined that the driver had a prior criminal history. The vehicle inspection revealed bundles of a clear crystal like substance in a tire. The substance tested positive for methamphetamine.
Agents seized 42.5 pounds of the drug with an estimated street value of $1,360,000 dollars. The driver and drugs were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for prosecution.
“Specialty Units such as our canines are an integral part of our day to day operations” said Chief Patrol Agent Gloria Chavez. “Our canines are highly trained and paired with Border Patrol agents they become a valuable team enhancing our border security mission.”
It is important to note that an arrest or criminal complaint is merely a charge and should not be considered evidence of guilt. Subjects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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 to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @USBPChiefEPT and @CBPWestTexas.