Border Patrol agents seize $81,000 in U.S. currency

Border Patrol agents seize $81,000 in U.S. currency

December 07, 2012 9:16 PM
By JAMES GILBERT - @YSJAMESGILBERT

Border Patrol agents from the Yuma Sector's Blythe Station seized more than $81,000 in U.S. currency Wednesday, according to a news release from the sector's public affairs office.

The news release indicated that while agents were performing transportation checks on a bus in Blythe, they noticed the smell of marijuana emanating from luggage.

A canine alerted to a black leather bag on one of the seats. After receiving consent, agents searched the bag and found two vacuum-sealed plastic bags containing $81,750 in U.S. currency.

Agents also found nearly two and a half pounds of methamphetamine, worth an estimated $38,000, in an unclaimed bag.

The cash, methamphetamine and owner of the luggage were turned over to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office.

When Border Patrol agents discover large amounts of currency, they investigate further to determine whether the currency was connected to any type of illicit activity. During fiscal year 2011, Yuma Sector agents seized more than $800,000 determined as profits generated from illegal activity.

Customs and Border Protection officials welcome assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol and remain anonymous by calling 1-866-999-8727, toll free.

Border Patrol agents from the Yuma Sector's Blythe Station seized more than $81,000 in U.S. currency an estimated $38,000 in methamphetamine while were performing transportation checks on a bus in Blythe Wednesday.
http://www.yumasun.com/news/agents-83765-border-currency.html