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  4. CBP Nets Nearly $230k in Undeclared Currency at Ambassador Bridge

CBP Nets Nearly $230k in Undeclared Currency at Ambassador Bridge

Release Date
Wed, 09/29/2021

Concealed cash discovered in separate outbound commercial conveyances

DETROIT — Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Office of Field Operations seized $200,000 in undeclared U.S. currency at the Canadian border early Tuesday morning.

The cash was discovered by officers during a series of outbound commercial vehicle inspections near the Ambassador Bridge port of entry.

Money cache seized at Ambassador Bridge
Money cache seized at Ambassador Bridge

The cache of currency was seized due to failure to report, and the driver was released without further incident.

Homeland Security Investigations continues to investigate the matter.

Less than 24 hours earlier, $28,000 in undeclared currency was seized at the same site.

Travelers arriving to and departing from the United States with currency or monetary instruments in a combined amount of more than $10,000 are required to file a Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments (FinCEN 105).

“There is no limit to the amount of money that travelers may carry when crossing U.S. borders, but reporting is required under the Currency and Foreign Transaction Reporting Act,” said Port Director Devin Chamberlain. “Failure to comply can result in civil and criminal penalties and may lead to loss of undeclared monetary instruments.” 

An individual may petition for the return of seized currency, but the petitioner must prove the source and intended use of the currency was legitimate.

Follow us on Twitter @DFODetroit and @CBPGreatLakes

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: Sep 29, 2021