07.27.07
EP Customs and Border Protection officer arrested

July 27, 2007 12:35 PM PDT

EL PASO, Tx. - Federal agents arrested a Customs and Border Protection officer this morning while she was on duty at an international bridge.

United States Attorney Johnny Sutton announced that CBP officer Margarita Crispin faces one count of conspiracy to import a controlled substance.

According to the indictment, Crispin conspired with others to let more than a ton of marijuana into the United States from June 2003 until July 2007.

In a statement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokesman Roger Maier said Crispin's arrest will have an impact on the rest of the agency. "While rare, an arrest of this sort tarnishes the badge and reputation of the rest of the hard working and dedicated CBP workforce."

Maier said the agency closely monitors officers and instills in them the importance of integrity from the time officers begin training and throughout their careers. "CBP also employs numerous enforcement operations that contain integrity elements to support the training CBP officers receive." In spite of this, Maier said, "a rare few succumb to temptation."

Crispin remains in federal custody. She's expected to go before a federal magistrate judge Monday. If convicted, she faces between ten years and life in federal prison.

No word at this time on any more arrests related to this case.

http://www.kvia.com/Global/story.asp?S=6849989