$800,000 in Cocaine Seized by CBP Officers at Nogales Port of Entry

SENTRI Participant Arrested
Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Nogales, Ariz – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers arrested a SENTRI participant yesterday morning after discovering almost 52 pounds of cocaine hidden inside his vehicle.

“This program is designed for low-risk border crossers, and we have a zero-tolerance policy toward smugglers,” said Port Director James Tong, “If someone attempts to use this program to smuggle contraband, we will take every step possible, working with the US Attorney’s Office to have that person prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

At a little past 9:00 yesterday morning, a 45-year-old U.S. citizen from Nogales, Arizona attempted to enter the country through the SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) lane at the Dennis DeConcini port of entry. A CBP officer screening travelers became suspicious after noticing discrepancies with the vehicle, a 2001 Ford F-150, and referred the driver in for a thorough inspection. ( SENTRI )

During the inspection, officers discovered 19 packages of cocaine, weighing almost 52 pounds, hidden inside a compartment built into the vehicle.

The man was immediately arrested and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.

Estimated street value of the cocaine is in excess of $863,000.