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  4. Heroin Discovered By CBP at JFK Airport

Heroin Discovered By CBP at JFK Airport

Release Date
Wed, 07/18/2018

JAMAICA, N.Y. — On July 15, Ms. Emma Soriano, a United States citizen, arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport from Mexico City.  A baggage inspection by U. S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) resulted in the discovery of four egg-shaped packages of heroin.  In total approximately 4.4 kilograms of heroin were seized, or approximately 9.7 pounds.

JFK CBP Heroin Seizure Food Courier
JFK CBP Heroin Seizure Food Courier

The heroin has an estimated street value of more than $300,000. 

“Our CBP officers and agriculture specialists experience and vigilance was a key component in this significant narcotic seizure,” said Frank Russo, Acting Director of CBP’s New York Field Office.

CBP seized the narcotics.  The woman was arrested and the case was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations.  She now faces federal narcotics smuggling charges and will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the U.S. Eastern District Court of New York.

All defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty. 

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 the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

Last Modified: Feb 03, 2021