For the third time this week, U.S. Border Patrol Agents thwarted a narcotics smuggler.
On October 8, U.S. Border Patrol Agents encountered a black Ford F-150 approaching the primary inspection area at the Alamogordo immigration checkpoint on U.S. Highway 54.
During the immigration inspection, a canine alerted to the possible presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A further inspection of the vehicle by U.S. Border Patrol agents located one bundle concealed near the dashboard. The package contained nearly 3 pounds of cocaine with an estimated street value of over $80,000.
The driver, a 31-year-old U.S. citizen male was placed under arrest. The subject was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for criminal prosecution.
“Our agents continue to foil the Transnational Criminal Organization’s daily attempts to smuggle narcotics through our immigration checkpoints,” stated El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez. “The positive benefits of these hard drugs being prevented from making their way into our communities is immeasurable.”
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.
Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Follow us on Twitter at @USBPChiefEPT and @CBPWestTexas.