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  4. Trusted Traveler Attempting to Smuggle Drugs Arrested at Peace Bridge

Trusted Traveler Attempting to Smuggle Drugs Arrested at Peace Bridge

Release Date
Tue, 02/17/2015

Buffalo, N.Y. – On Monday, Feb. 16, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers arrested a U.S. citizen female at the Peace Bridge after she was found to be in possession of methadone, prescription pills and other drug paraphernalia.

“This was an excellent job by our officers,” said Rose Hilmey, CBP director for the Buffalo Field Office. “Our officers have outstanding observational skills and were able to identify an individual on primary who required further inspection. In this case, this individual was also a member of the trusted traveler program.”

Ashley Arlen, 26, a U.S. citizen, attempted to enter the United States from Canada at the Peace Bridge utilizing the NEXUS Lane. Arlen, a NEXUS card holder and member of the trusted traveler program was referred to secondary for further inspection. During the secondary inspection, CBP officers discovered more than 200 grams of liquid methadone, several prescription pills and drug paraphernalia including syringes, a glass pipe and a mortar and pestle.

Arlen was arrested and turned over to the Buffalo Police Department for processing.

The fact that the defendants have been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

CBP is responsible for securing our borders while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel into and out of the United States. We also assist and support the law enforcement efforts of our state, local, tribal, federal and international partners on both sides of the border, as we carry out our traditional border-related responsibilities. We will continue to collaborate, and actively share intelligence and information as we work together to ensure the security of our mutually shared border and the safety of our communities.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021