C.B.P. News Release

Border Patrol Seizes Nearly $400K during Traffic Stop

(Tuesday, April 28, 2009)

San Clemente, Calif. - Border Patrol agents seized a large sum of money suspected to be connected to narcotics sales on Monday afternoon during a traffic stop on southbound Interstate 5, near the San Clemente Border Patrol Checkpoint.

A 29-year-old male Mexican national, driving a Volkswagen Golf, was questioned by Border Patrol agents. After question the man, agents searched the vehicle and discovered numerous large bundles of U.S. currency hidden within the rear quarter panels of the Volkswagen. The total of the currency was $399,900. Six counterfeit bills totaling $100 were also found within bundles of seized currency.

A Border Patrol traffic stop resulted in the discovery of nearly $400,000 in the rear panels of a Volkswagen Golf.

The suspected smuggler is currently in federal custody and has been charged for bulk cash smuggling. The vehicle and the cash were seized by the Border Patrol.

To detect and interdict smugglers of humans, drugs and other contraband, the Border Patrol employs a multi-layered enforcement approach through coordinated enforcement operations, while maintaining partnerships with other law enforcement agencies.

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.

Contacts For This News Release
San Diego Sector
CBP Public Affairs
Phone: (619) 216-4182 Ext: 114 or
(619) 652-9966 Ext: 192 (Spanish)

http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/newsroom/new ... 2009_5.xml