Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. - During the month of May 2010, U.S. Customs and Border Protection field operations officers located at the International Bridge in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. processed approximately 135,000 travelers while interdicting 41 offenders of federal, state or local laws.
As the weather warms in the Soo, more activity is apparent as interdictions along the border increase. A total 63.7 grams of marijuana were seized from seven travelers that entered the United States: these seizures resulted in $2,500 in penalties being assessed and one arrest for trafficking narcotics.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection air and marine agents seized two grams of marijuana at a local marina and field operations officers stationed at the International Bridge arrested the subject.
Approximately $200 worth of fireworks were seized from a U.S. citizen returning from a trip to Canada. The fireworks were in violation of Michigan state law. Also in violation of Michigan state law was another returning U.S. citizen in possession of a stun gun. Because it was declared, no penalty was assessed.
Twenty-three Cuban cigars were seized from two separate individuals. This is an Office of Foreign Asset Control violation, as articles originating from Cuba are not authorized to be brought into the U.S.
Additionally, ongoing upgrades to the port of entry, such as construction of a new canopy and technology upgrades will help to provide shelter in inclement weather and relieve congestion on the International Bridge allowing officers to concentrate on their primary mission of facilitating legitimate travel and trade while interdicting non-compliant travelers.
"While the above violations are significant, it should be noted that the vast majority of travelers encountered by CBP at the International Bridge are law-abiding citizens," commented Patrick Wilson, acting port director for the Sault Ste. Marie crossing.