CBP officers seize $68,422 headed to Mexico

Aaron Martinez, El Paso Times 12:47 p.m. MDT October 3, 2016


(Photo: Courtesy U.S. Customs and Border Protection)


U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers arrested two people last week and seized nearly $70,000 hidden in the dashboard of a vehicle attempting to crossing into Mexico from Presidio, Texas.

Officers conducting a southbound inspection operation chose a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado for “intensive inspection” at about 3:30 p.m. Thursday at the Presidio port of entry, officials said.


An X-ray inspection found anomalies in the front dashboard area of the truck, officials said. Officers allegedly found $68,422 in bundles wrapped in black tape hidden in the dashboard area.


Guadalupe Villarreal Johnson, 35, of Ciudad Acuna, Coahuila, Mexico, and Gina Villarreal Johnson, 30, of Fort Stockton, Texas, were arrested and turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents, officials said.


Both women are facing federal charges in connection with the failed smuggling attempt.


“CBP officers are working hard to stop the illegal movement of guns, ammunition and unreported currency,” CBP Presidio Port Director John Deputy said in a statement. “Travelers who do not follow federal currency reporting requirements run the risk of losing their currency and may potentially face criminal charges.”

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