BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Peace Bridge Port of Entry arrested three individuals after a failed smuggling attempt on March 1.
Leszek Budzyna, age 50, a male citizen of Canada, was charged with attempted alien smuggling and making false statements.
Jerzy Madej, age 54, a male citizen of Poland, and Monika Gondek, age 47, a female citizen of Poland, were charged with eluding examination and inspection by immigration officials.
Truck stops for inspection at Peace Bridge Port of Entry
"This was an outstanding job by our front line officers," said Acting Port Director Cary Frieling. "Our officers possess keen observational skills, and in this case, they were able to determine that this truck required further inspection. Human smuggling is a serious violation of U.S. law, and prevention of such violations is part of CBP’s mission.”
On March 1, Budzyna presented himself as a commercial truck driver and attempted to enter the U.S. from Canada at Peace Bridge. Budzyna stated he was driving to pick up a trailer in the Buffalo area and then returning to Canada. Utilizing observational and interview techniques, the primary officer noticed nervousness and inconsistencies with Budzyna’s story. Budzyna was subsequently referred to secondary for further inspection.
A secondary examination of the tractor resulted in the discovery of Madej and Gondek hiding inside the cab.
On March 3, Budzyna, Madej, and Gondek appeared before a federal magistrate to face charges and were detained.