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  4. $20.7 Million in Designer Jewelry Seized at Detroit Border

$20.7 Million in Designer Jewelry Seized at Detroit Border

Release Date
Wed, 11/18/2020

Undeclared and Unmanifested Merchandise Bound for New York Auction House

DETROIT — Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Office of Field Operations seized more than $20 million in designer jewelry at the Detroit Windsor Tunnel Monday.

Undeclared jewelry seized at Detroit Windsor Tunnel Monday Nov 16
Undeclared jewelry seized at Detroit Windsor Tunnel Monday Nov 16

The jewelry was destined for a New York auction house where it was to be appraised and eventually sold on behalf of the owner, a Canadian citizen.

The undeclared and unmanifested merchandise was discovered after an investigation revealed a courier service was hired to transport the package to a Detroit-based contact, who was to then make final delivery.

The driver of the vehicle claimed no knowledge of the contents of the package, and was subsequently returned to Canada.

The owner of the jewelry was informed the pieces would be seized based on importation contrary to law and for failure to declare the merchandise upon entry to the U.S.   

“For the traveling public, this example underscores the importance of knowing what is in their possession when attempting to make entry into the United States, and declaring it accordingly,” said Port Director Devin Chamberlain. “Officers in Detroit did an excellent job in discovering and securing this high-value undeclared merchandise.” 

Officers have legal authority to search all travelers, baggage and conveyances entering the U.S. Some goods may be subject to duty or importation requirements, or may be prohibited.  More information can be found at cbp.gov.

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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 03, 2021