In separate drug smuggling incidents, Border Patrol agents working at the Interstate 8 and 5 checkpoints thwarted a pair of marijuana and cocaine smuggling attempts. The agents confirmed the seizure of cocaine and marijuana had an estimated street value of $1,196,445.
Yesterday, Border Patrol agents encountered a female 59-year-old U.S. citizen driving a BMW passing through the I-8 checkpoint just east of San Diego. The woman’s anxious and jumpy behavior concerned agents and they referred her to the checkpoint’s secondary inspection zone.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert,” according to Scott Simon, of the San Diego Border Patrol. “Agents searched the vehicle and discovered 40 bundles of cocaine in a non-factory compartment under the front floorboard. The cocaine weighed 117.55 pounds and had an estimated street value of $1,175,500.”
A second incident unfolded at the I-5 checkpoint north of San Diego near Camp Pendleton Marine base. A 22-year-old male Mexican national arrived at the checkpoint shortly after noon driving a Ford Windstar. After the Border Patrol K-9 team inspected the minivan, agents were alerted to a concealed compartment that stored 11 bundles of marijuana.
Advertisement
Border Patrol agents searched the minivan, “and discovered six bundles of marijuana in the passenger-side, rear-quarter panel and five bundles in the spare tire located under the vehicle. The marijuana weighed a total of 41.89 pounds and had an estimated street value of $20,945.”
The U.S. Border Patrol seized both vehicles used in the narcotic smuggling incidents. The suspected smugglers, and their narcotics in both incidents were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for further investigation,” according to a CBP statement.
To report suspicious activity call the San Diego Border Patrol at (619) 498-9900.
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
Continue reading on Examiner.com Border Patrol takes $1.2 million in illicit drugs off the streets - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/border-patrol-takes-1-2-million-illicit-drugs-off-the-streets#ixzz1r8HdAZtY
Showing posts with label drug smuggling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label drug smuggling. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Border Patrol snags cocaine and meth worth $1 million
Border Patrol agents detained two suspected drug smugglers in separate stops that netted more than 100 pounds of cocaine and crystal methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $1.13 million.
The first stop involved a 30-year-old female Mexican national sitting in the driver’s seat of a Jeep Cherokee that was parked at a rest area located just north of Oceanside (The rest stop also shares a fence line with Camp Pendleton Marine Base on Interstate 5).
After questioning the woman, Border Patrol agents completed a consensual cursory search by a K-9 team. The Border Patrol K-9 dogs alerted agents to a positive scent in the Jeep. Following a brief search of the engine compartment, agents discovered 16 bundles of crystal meth concealed in the intake manifold. The drugs weighed nearly 11 pounds valued about $215,000.
Less than an hour later Border Patrol agents stopped a 27-year-old U.S. citizen driving to California from Arizona. The female arrived at the checkpoint east of San Diego where agents directed the driver to the secondary inspection area. Again the Border Patrol K-9 team alerted agents to drugs hidden underneath the car’s floorboards.
The U.S. Border Patrol seized both vehicles used in the narcotic smuggling incidents.Once the two aftermarket compartments were discovered, Border Patrol removed 30 bundles of cocaine. “The cocaine weighed 91.5 pounds with an estimated street value of $915,400. The suspected smugglers and narcotics in both incidents were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for further investigation,” according to a CBP statement.
Border Patrol agents encourage anyone who observes suspicious activity in the San Diego Sector to call (619) 498-9900.
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
The first stop involved a 30-year-old female Mexican national sitting in the driver’s seat of a Jeep Cherokee that was parked at a rest area located just north of Oceanside (The rest stop also shares a fence line with Camp Pendleton Marine Base on Interstate 5).
After questioning the woman, Border Patrol agents completed a consensual cursory search by a K-9 team. The Border Patrol K-9 dogs alerted agents to a positive scent in the Jeep. Following a brief search of the engine compartment, agents discovered 16 bundles of crystal meth concealed in the intake manifold. The drugs weighed nearly 11 pounds valued about $215,000.
Less than an hour later Border Patrol agents stopped a 27-year-old U.S. citizen driving to California from Arizona. The female arrived at the checkpoint east of San Diego where agents directed the driver to the secondary inspection area. Again the Border Patrol K-9 team alerted agents to drugs hidden underneath the car’s floorboards.
The U.S. Border Patrol seized both vehicles used in the narcotic smuggling incidents.Once the two aftermarket compartments were discovered, Border Patrol removed 30 bundles of cocaine. “The cocaine weighed 91.5 pounds with an estimated street value of $915,400. The suspected smugglers and narcotics in both incidents were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for further investigation,” according to a CBP statement.
Border Patrol agents encourage anyone who observes suspicious activity in the San Diego Sector to call (619) 498-9900.
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
CBP Agents seize Mexican-panga boat in Malibu loaded with pot
CBP agents apprehended illegal drug smugglers when they attempted to come ashore in the upscale community of Malibu. Officers immediately arrested three Mexican nationals following the interdiction when agents spotted numerous bales of marijuana.
The weekend bust made by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confiscated approximately one-and-a-half tons of weed wrapped in cellophane.
CBP stated that they were working with the California National Guard when they spotted the panga-like vessel cruising slowly along the coastline. The National Guard unit alerted Border Patrol agents and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs, who responded to the Point Dume State Beach after midnight.
According to agents on the scene, the three men who illegally entered the U.S. were arrested and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and will face multiple charges. The weight of the marijuana totaled 2,575 pounds and an estimated street value of $1, 287, 500.
“The Department of Homeland Security has increased coastal-border security in Southern California (as) transnational criminal organizations have shifted their smuggling tactics further north into Los Angeles and Ventura Counties,” Scott E. Simon,U.S. Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Information and Communication Division said. “As a result, CBP and its partners have intensified efforts to target the illegal activity, expanding the use of marine patrols, land-based surveillance, and collaboration with the Government of Mexico.”
These multi-agency task forces are a key component to interdict maritime drug smugglers along California’s 840-mile coastline.
The CBP logged 26 unauthorized maritime smuggling attempts during fiscal year 2011 in the Los Angeles/Ventura area. So far this year, 2012, the multi-agency CBP task force has recorded 14 maritime incidents along the southern California beaches, including three in Ventura County and one in Santa Barbara County.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
The weekend bust made by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confiscated approximately one-and-a-half tons of weed wrapped in cellophane.
CBP stated that they were working with the California National Guard when they spotted the panga-like vessel cruising slowly along the coastline. The National Guard unit alerted Border Patrol agents and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs, who responded to the Point Dume State Beach after midnight.
According to agents on the scene, the three men who illegally entered the U.S. were arrested and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and will face multiple charges. The weight of the marijuana totaled 2,575 pounds and an estimated street value of $1, 287, 500.
“The Department of Homeland Security has increased coastal-border security in Southern California (as) transnational criminal organizations have shifted their smuggling tactics further north into Los Angeles and Ventura Counties,” Scott E. Simon,U.S. Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Information and Communication Division said. “As a result, CBP and its partners have intensified efforts to target the illegal activity, expanding the use of marine patrols, land-based surveillance, and collaboration with the Government of Mexico.”
These multi-agency task forces are a key component to interdict maritime drug smugglers along California’s 840-mile coastline.
The CBP logged 26 unauthorized maritime smuggling attempts during fiscal year 2011 in the Los Angeles/Ventura area. So far this year, 2012, the multi-agency CBP task force has recorded 14 maritime incidents along the southern California beaches, including three in Ventura County and one in Santa Barbara County.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Border Patrol seizes nearly $1 million worth of illegal drugs in San Diego
Over the weekend, San Diego Border Patrol agents snagged more than $930,000 worth of cocaine, marijuana, and crystal methamphetamine.
“On Saturday, agents assigned to the Interstate 8 checkpoint near Pine Valley arrested a 26-year-old male United States citizen for attempting to smuggle 61.91 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated $619, 058,” Scott E. Simon, Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Communication Division said.
Simon said the drugs were discovered at the checkpoint’s secondary inspection area by K-9 dogs. The illicit drugs were located in a secret floorboard compartment.
“Our agents searched the vehicle (a BMW X5) and discovered 25 cellophane-wrapped brick-shaped bundles in natural voids beneath seats. The suspected smuggler and cocaine were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to a multi-agency drug task force,” Simon said.
In a separate incident, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate 15 checkpoint stopped a Mexican national driving a Ford pickup. Again, it was a K-9 team that located illicit drugs.
“Agents searched and subsequently discovered a non-factory compartment beneath the bed of the truck in which 30 bundles of marijuana were concealed. The drugs weighed a total of 313.83 pounds and had an estimated street value of $156, 915,” according to Border Patrol.
Border Patrol agents arrested and turned over all the suspected drug smugglers to the proper authorities. All of the vehicles were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Anyone with information regarding suspicious activity is encouraged to contact the San Diego Border Patrol at (619) 498-9900.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
“On Saturday, agents assigned to the Interstate 8 checkpoint near Pine Valley arrested a 26-year-old male United States citizen for attempting to smuggle 61.91 pounds of cocaine worth an estimated $619, 058,” Scott E. Simon, Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Communication Division said.
Simon said the drugs were discovered at the checkpoint’s secondary inspection area by K-9 dogs. The illicit drugs were located in a secret floorboard compartment.
“Our agents searched the vehicle (a BMW X5) and discovered 25 cellophane-wrapped brick-shaped bundles in natural voids beneath seats. The suspected smuggler and cocaine were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to a multi-agency drug task force,” Simon said.
In a separate incident, Border Patrol agents assigned to the Interstate 15 checkpoint stopped a Mexican national driving a Ford pickup. Again, it was a K-9 team that located illicit drugs.
“Agents searched and subsequently discovered a non-factory compartment beneath the bed of the truck in which 30 bundles of marijuana were concealed. The drugs weighed a total of 313.83 pounds and had an estimated street value of $156, 915,” according to Border Patrol.
Border Patrol agents arrested and turned over all the suspected drug smugglers to the proper authorities. All of the vehicles were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Anyone with information regarding suspicious activity is encouraged to contact the San Diego Border Patrol at (619) 498-9900.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Border Patrol confiscates more than $617,000 of Methamphetamine drugs
Border Patrol agents working north of San Diego at the Interstate 15 checkpoint nabbed two narcotic smugglers carrying 30 pounds of methamphetamine.
The agents stopped a male 20-year-old U.S. citizen driving a black Hummer H3 along with a 21-year-old male U. S. citizen passenger as they arrived at the freeway checkpoint. During the inspection process, BP agents became suspicious of the occupant’s nervous behavior and referred them to a secondary inspection area.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert,” said Scott Simon, Border Patrol Agent in the San Diego Sector Information and Communication Division.“Agents searched the vehicle and discovered a non-factory compartment in the rear cargo deck concealing a total of 20 bundles of methamphetamine.”
The illegal narcotics weighed approximately 31 pounds and had an estimated street value of $617,400, officials said. “The suspected smugglers and narcotics were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation. The Hummer H3 was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol,” Simon finished.
Advertisement
In an effort to prevent illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and contraband, the Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on major U.S. corridors away from the nation’s borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
The agents stopped a male 20-year-old U.S. citizen driving a black Hummer H3 along with a 21-year-old male U. S. citizen passenger as they arrived at the freeway checkpoint. During the inspection process, BP agents became suspicious of the occupant’s nervous behavior and referred them to a secondary inspection area.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert,” said Scott Simon, Border Patrol Agent in the San Diego Sector Information and Communication Division.“Agents searched the vehicle and discovered a non-factory compartment in the rear cargo deck concealing a total of 20 bundles of methamphetamine.”
The illegal narcotics weighed approximately 31 pounds and had an estimated street value of $617,400, officials said. “The suspected smugglers and narcotics were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation. The Hummer H3 was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol,” Simon finished.
Advertisement
In an effort to prevent illicit smuggling of humans, drugs, and contraband, the Border Patrol maintains a high level of vigilance on major U.S. corridors away from the nation’s borders. To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2012 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Monday, January 9, 2012
47 pounds of cocaine snagged by San Diego Border Patrol
U.S. Border Patrol agents snagged 47 pounds of cocaine just east of San Diego at the Interstate 8 checkpoint.
Yesterday Border Patrol agents encountered a 43-year-old male Mexican national driving a X3 BMW at the Pine Valley checkpoint, agents found the driver’s demeanor suspicious and sent the car to the secondary inspection station.
During the examination of the BMW, a Border Patrol K-9 team alerted agents to a positive alert inside the driver’s side door. The Border Patrol Agents searched the vehicle and found 20 bundles of cocaine concealed inside of the rocker panels on both sides of the vehicle, according to Scott E. Simon, Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Information & Communication Division.
“The cocaine weighed a total 47.09 pounds and had an estimated street value of $470,900,” Simon said. “The suspected smuggler and narcotics were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation. The BMW was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.”
To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Yesterday Border Patrol agents encountered a 43-year-old male Mexican national driving a X3 BMW at the Pine Valley checkpoint, agents found the driver’s demeanor suspicious and sent the car to the secondary inspection station.
During the examination of the BMW, a Border Patrol K-9 team alerted agents to a positive alert inside the driver’s side door. The Border Patrol Agents searched the vehicle and found 20 bundles of cocaine concealed inside of the rocker panels on both sides of the vehicle, according to Scott E. Simon, Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Information & Communication Division.
“The cocaine weighed a total 47.09 pounds and had an estimated street value of $470,900,” Simon said. “The suspected smuggler and narcotics were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation. The BMW was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.”
To report suspicious activity to the U.S. Border Patrol, contact San Diego Sector at (619) 498-9900.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
The holiday season doesn’t slow Mexican cartels from smuggling illicit drugs
It may be the Yuletide season, but that hasn’t stopped drug smugglers from wanting to earn some extra Christmas cash. This week in San Diego, Border Patrol agents played Grinch and snatched nearly $700,000 worth of cocaine, heroin and methamphetamine.
Yesterday, Border Patrol agents, patrolling along Interstate 15 stopped a 28-year-old male U.S. citizen driving a pickup truck. After the stop, agents called a Border Patrol K-9 team to conduct a cursory inspection of the vehicle. The K-9 positively alerted agents to the interior of the truck where agents discovered five bundles of methamphetamine in a black trash bag. “The total weight of the meth was 12.02 pounds and worth an estimated $240,400,” according to Border Patrol Agent Scott Simon.
In a separate bust, Border Patrol agents at the Interstate 8 checkpoint just east of San Diego, arrested a 23-year-old male Mexican national for smuggling 3.53 pounds of heroin worth $45,890 in the soles of two pairs of dress shoes.
“Agents encountered the individual while performing an immigration inspection of a commercial bus travelling to San Diego,” Scott said. “During inspection, agents became suspicious of the man’s nervous demeanor and referred him for a secondary inspection. A Border Patrol K-9 team alerted to the man’s luggage, where agents discovered packages of heroin hidden inside of a pair of brown shoes. Agents also located similar packages inside of a pair of black shoes the man was wearing.”
At the same I-8 checkpoint, Border Patrol detained a 39-year-old male U.S. citizen for attempting to smuggle 39.68 pounds of cocaine. The nervous driver was sent to secondary inspection, where a K-9 team led agents to the gas tank. Inside the tank, Border Patrol found 15 bundles of cocaine worth an estimated street value of $396,800.
All the suspected smugglers and $683,000 worth of narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and two pickup trucks were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Yesterday, Border Patrol agents, patrolling along Interstate 15 stopped a 28-year-old male U.S. citizen driving a pickup truck. After the stop, agents called a Border Patrol K-9 team to conduct a cursory inspection of the vehicle. The K-9 positively alerted agents to the interior of the truck where agents discovered five bundles of methamphetamine in a black trash bag. “The total weight of the meth was 12.02 pounds and worth an estimated $240,400,” according to Border Patrol Agent Scott Simon.
In a separate bust, Border Patrol agents at the Interstate 8 checkpoint just east of San Diego, arrested a 23-year-old male Mexican national for smuggling 3.53 pounds of heroin worth $45,890 in the soles of two pairs of dress shoes.
“Agents encountered the individual while performing an immigration inspection of a commercial bus travelling to San Diego,” Scott said. “During inspection, agents became suspicious of the man’s nervous demeanor and referred him for a secondary inspection. A Border Patrol K-9 team alerted to the man’s luggage, where agents discovered packages of heroin hidden inside of a pair of brown shoes. Agents also located similar packages inside of a pair of black shoes the man was wearing.”
At the same I-8 checkpoint, Border Patrol detained a 39-year-old male U.S. citizen for attempting to smuggle 39.68 pounds of cocaine. The nervous driver was sent to secondary inspection, where a K-9 team led agents to the gas tank. Inside the tank, Border Patrol found 15 bundles of cocaine worth an estimated street value of $396,800.
All the suspected smugglers and $683,000 worth of narcotics were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and two pickup trucks were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Mexican soldiers seize large “pot-throwing” catapults from cartels
With the nation’s southern border facing more scrutiny than ever before, it was the Mexican military that found large catapults typically used to sling illicit drugs over the border fence near Douglas, Arizona.
A statement released yesterday by Mexican authorities indicated they followed an anonymous tip to a border city neighborhood. Military troops entered an Agua Prieta house and located one catapult in a truck and another in the residence.
A search of the home led to the Mexican soldiers seizing 1.4 tons of marijuana that was headed to U.S. cities. Earlier this year, law enforcement agents said they nabbed two other drug-like catapults.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
To reach Kimberly Dvorak email; kimberly.dvorak@hotmail.com
A statement released yesterday by Mexican authorities indicated they followed an anonymous tip to a border city neighborhood. Military troops entered an Agua Prieta house and located one catapult in a truck and another in the residence.
A search of the home led to the Mexican soldiers seizing 1.4 tons of marijuana that was headed to U.S. cities. Earlier this year, law enforcement agents said they nabbed two other drug-like catapults.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
To reach Kimberly Dvorak email; kimberly.dvorak@hotmail.com
Friday, October 28, 2011
Drug seizures in San Diego continue with Border Patrol
Interior Border Patrol checkpoints continue to slow drug smugglers progress and capture illicit drugs before they hit the streets. Yesterday, a Mexican national male, was apprehended when he tried to smuggle nine bundles of cocaine into the U.S.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team alerted to a blue 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee and agents subsequently discovered 21.2 pounds of cocaine hidden inside the vehicle’s spare tire with an estimated street value of $211,200,” according to Scott Simon, Border Patrol Agent from San Diego.
The alleged-drug smuggler and the cocaine were taken into custody and handed off to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to face charges.
Border Patrol Agents from interior checkpoints busted several U.S. citizens for trafficking marijuana this week. The agents found approximately 150 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $200,000. All the alleged-drug smugglers were arrested and booked into county jail. Border Patrol Agents detained the marijuana and vehicles.
Advertisement
Since October 1, 2010, the San Diego Sector Border Patrol has seized approximately 2,331 pounds of cocaine, 578 pounds of methamphetamine and 68,722 pounds of marijuana.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Drug seizures in San Diego continue with Border Patrol - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/drug-seizures-san-diego-continue-with-border-patrol#ixzz1c7qyH2lc
“A Border Patrol K-9 team alerted to a blue 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee and agents subsequently discovered 21.2 pounds of cocaine hidden inside the vehicle’s spare tire with an estimated street value of $211,200,” according to Scott Simon, Border Patrol Agent from San Diego.
The alleged-drug smuggler and the cocaine were taken into custody and handed off to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to face charges.
Border Patrol Agents from interior checkpoints busted several U.S. citizens for trafficking marijuana this week. The agents found approximately 150 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated $200,000. All the alleged-drug smugglers were arrested and booked into county jail. Border Patrol Agents detained the marijuana and vehicles.
Advertisement
Since October 1, 2010, the San Diego Sector Border Patrol has seized approximately 2,331 pounds of cocaine, 578 pounds of methamphetamine and 68,722 pounds of marijuana.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Drug seizures in San Diego continue with Border Patrol - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/drug-seizures-san-diego-continue-with-border-patrol#ixzz1c7qyH2lc
Monday, October 10, 2011
The murder of New Mexico border rancher Larry Link remains unsolved
It’s been nearly six months since New Mexico rancher Larry Link was unexpectedly gunned down on his property and New Mexico State Police say they are no closer to solving the murder.
The lack of news about the June 7, 2011 murder weighs heavily on the minds of ranchers whose property straddles the international border with Mexico. However, most ranchers believe the crime was perpetrated by someone connected to the drug smuggling community.
Spokesperson for the New Mexico Police, Tim Johnson, indicated that locals in the region are perplexed that the murder investigation has not produced any leads and “encourages anyone with information to contact the State Police.”
The ranch where Link was executed is home to known-drug smuggling corridor. This murder falls on the heels of longtime Arizona rancher Rob Krentz, who was also killed by unknown assailants. These two unsolved slayings have forced property owners along the southern region to travel heavily-armed at all times.
A recent trip to Arizona’s border ranches highlighted the daily danger property owners and their ranch hands face on any given day. Most remain on a constant state of alert as they have been victims of break-ins, robberies and destruction of property.
“As you can see we have to carry multiple firearms with us at all times,” says Jim Chilton whose family has been ranching in Arizona since the 1800s. “We’ve had several break-ins and robberies. So far we haven’t been harmed by the rip crews (drug smugglers who rob from other human smugglers and property owners), but the criminals keep my wife and I prepared at all times.”
The Chilton ranch sees a daily barrage of drug smugglers seeking to deliver narcotics into the U.S. or illegal aliens seeking a “better life” in America. This steady flow of illicit activity forces ranchers to check fence lines every day. Chilton explains his ranch hands now have to travel armed and be ready to defend themselves from possible attacks- something ranchers never worried about a decade ago.
“We’ve had to add much more security to our homes in recent years for our safety,” he explained.
Even with the added security and permanent ranch hands Link’s murder lingers in the back of Chilton’s mind. “It was a senseless crime.”
Chilton knows a bit about senseless crimes; his ranch is a stone’s throw away from Rio Rico, Arizona where Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry was killed by drug smugglers using the now infamous “fast and furious” guns.
“The canyons in this part of Arizona give the drug smugglers ample terrain to scout and traverse into America,” Chilton said.
He goes on to explain that he provides water fountains every quarter of a mile to keep the illegals from cutting water lines. Chilton also admits he does not report suspected illegal border crossers to the local authorities. “For reasons of safety and retaliation my wife and I do not report every crosser because we don’t want anyone to harm us.”
The Krentz and Link unsolved murders provide plenty of proof that staying outside the fray is the best policy.
In the meantime, ranchers will continue to protect their lives and property fiercely and hope they are not the next victims of druggers (a term Chilton uses referring to illegal drug smugglers).
Those with any information about the Larry Link murder can reach the New Mexico State Police at (575) 524-8827 or to report an anonymous tip, call Crime Stoppers at (575) 542-8827.
Congressional hearings on border issues set for Friday
Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX) will chair a hearing on October 14th titled “A Call to Action: Narco-Terrorism’s Threat to the Southern U.S. Border” for the Homeland Security Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee will present to Congress a comprehensive military assessment of the U.S.-Mexico border.
A highlighted report, Texas Border Security: A Strategic Military Assessment, demonstrates that Mexican drug cartels are attempting to establish safe havens in the U.S. as a launching point into the rest of the United States. Among the findings the hearing will examine:
• Cartels’ intention to influence all levels of government throughout the Americas
• Cartels’ intention to establish sanctuary zones in the U.S. one county deep
• Poorly resourced U.S. tactical efforts to stop cartel incursions; vulnerability to corruption
• Increasing likelihood that competition to control distribution territories and corridors will result in greater violence in Texas, as the Mexican military gains more control in Mexico
• The need to designate Mexican drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations
“This report is a call to action. Every American needs to be aware of the threat these narco-terrorists pose to our communities in every state, and to our national security,” Rep. McCaul said. “To date, this administration has buried its head in the sand rather than confront the extraordinary magnitude of the cartels’ incursions and operations in the United States and the propensity for increased violence. If the White House does not heed the warning that now is the time to commit to a comprehensive strategy to secure the border, it unfortunately may take a catastrophic event to get their attention.”
To read the first story; UPDATE: New Mexico businessman Larry Link murdered on own property - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/breaking-new-mexico-rancher-larry-link-murdered-by-illegal-alien#ixzz1QE7BoOXl
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
The lack of news about the June 7, 2011 murder weighs heavily on the minds of ranchers whose property straddles the international border with Mexico. However, most ranchers believe the crime was perpetrated by someone connected to the drug smuggling community.
Spokesperson for the New Mexico Police, Tim Johnson, indicated that locals in the region are perplexed that the murder investigation has not produced any leads and “encourages anyone with information to contact the State Police.”
The ranch where Link was executed is home to known-drug smuggling corridor. This murder falls on the heels of longtime Arizona rancher Rob Krentz, who was also killed by unknown assailants. These two unsolved slayings have forced property owners along the southern region to travel heavily-armed at all times.
A recent trip to Arizona’s border ranches highlighted the daily danger property owners and their ranch hands face on any given day. Most remain on a constant state of alert as they have been victims of break-ins, robberies and destruction of property.
“As you can see we have to carry multiple firearms with us at all times,” says Jim Chilton whose family has been ranching in Arizona since the 1800s. “We’ve had several break-ins and robberies. So far we haven’t been harmed by the rip crews (drug smugglers who rob from other human smugglers and property owners), but the criminals keep my wife and I prepared at all times.”
The Chilton ranch sees a daily barrage of drug smugglers seeking to deliver narcotics into the U.S. or illegal aliens seeking a “better life” in America. This steady flow of illicit activity forces ranchers to check fence lines every day. Chilton explains his ranch hands now have to travel armed and be ready to defend themselves from possible attacks- something ranchers never worried about a decade ago.
“We’ve had to add much more security to our homes in recent years for our safety,” he explained.
Even with the added security and permanent ranch hands Link’s murder lingers in the back of Chilton’s mind. “It was a senseless crime.”
Chilton knows a bit about senseless crimes; his ranch is a stone’s throw away from Rio Rico, Arizona where Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry was killed by drug smugglers using the now infamous “fast and furious” guns.
“The canyons in this part of Arizona give the drug smugglers ample terrain to scout and traverse into America,” Chilton said.
He goes on to explain that he provides water fountains every quarter of a mile to keep the illegals from cutting water lines. Chilton also admits he does not report suspected illegal border crossers to the local authorities. “For reasons of safety and retaliation my wife and I do not report every crosser because we don’t want anyone to harm us.”
The Krentz and Link unsolved murders provide plenty of proof that staying outside the fray is the best policy.
In the meantime, ranchers will continue to protect their lives and property fiercely and hope they are not the next victims of druggers (a term Chilton uses referring to illegal drug smugglers).
Those with any information about the Larry Link murder can reach the New Mexico State Police at (575) 524-8827 or to report an anonymous tip, call Crime Stoppers at (575) 542-8827.
Congressional hearings on border issues set for Friday
Congressman Michael McCaul (R-TX) will chair a hearing on October 14th titled “A Call to Action: Narco-Terrorism’s Threat to the Southern U.S. Border” for the Homeland Security Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee will present to Congress a comprehensive military assessment of the U.S.-Mexico border.
A highlighted report, Texas Border Security: A Strategic Military Assessment, demonstrates that Mexican drug cartels are attempting to establish safe havens in the U.S. as a launching point into the rest of the United States. Among the findings the hearing will examine:
• Cartels’ intention to influence all levels of government throughout the Americas
• Cartels’ intention to establish sanctuary zones in the U.S. one county deep
• Poorly resourced U.S. tactical efforts to stop cartel incursions; vulnerability to corruption
• Increasing likelihood that competition to control distribution territories and corridors will result in greater violence in Texas, as the Mexican military gains more control in Mexico
• The need to designate Mexican drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations
“This report is a call to action. Every American needs to be aware of the threat these narco-terrorists pose to our communities in every state, and to our national security,” Rep. McCaul said. “To date, this administration has buried its head in the sand rather than confront the extraordinary magnitude of the cartels’ incursions and operations in the United States and the propensity for increased violence. If the White House does not heed the warning that now is the time to commit to a comprehensive strategy to secure the border, it unfortunately may take a catastrophic event to get their attention.”
To read the first story; UPDATE: New Mexico businessman Larry Link murdered on own property - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/breaking-new-mexico-rancher-larry-link-murdered-by-illegal-alien#ixzz1QE7BoOXl
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Border Patrol snags 100 pounds of cocaine at San Diego checkpoint
The Interstate 8 Border Patrol checkpoint east of San Diego snagged more than a million dollars worth of cocaine headed to America’s streets yesterday.
Border Patrol agents became suspicious of a 52-year-old male Mexican national, who was driving a green Peterbilt semi-truck when he stopped at the checkpoint. Their suspicions were confirmed during the secondary inspection when the K-9 team located illegal narcotics.
The Border Patrol K-9 team located the cocaine near the rear-side of the passenger panel inside the truck. “Agents searched the truck and discovered a total of 42 bundles of cocaine concealed inside of an air vent,” CBP agents said.
“The cocaine weighed a total 107.48 pounds and had an estimated street value of $1,074,800. The suspected smuggler and narcotics were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration,” according to agents.
The tractor trailer was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Advertisement
Since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 2,300 pounds of cocaine, more than 540 pounds of methamphetamine and 68,550 pounds of marijuana.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/china-s-war-strategy-why-it-s-working-part-one
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Border Patrol snags 100 pounds of cocaine at San Diego checkpoint - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/border-patrol-snags-100-pounds-of-cocaine-at-san-diego-checkpoint#ixzz1ZNIQEc5H
Border Patrol agents became suspicious of a 52-year-old male Mexican national, who was driving a green Peterbilt semi-truck when he stopped at the checkpoint. Their suspicions were confirmed during the secondary inspection when the K-9 team located illegal narcotics.
The Border Patrol K-9 team located the cocaine near the rear-side of the passenger panel inside the truck. “Agents searched the truck and discovered a total of 42 bundles of cocaine concealed inside of an air vent,” CBP agents said.
“The cocaine weighed a total 107.48 pounds and had an estimated street value of $1,074,800. The suspected smuggler and narcotics were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration,” according to agents.
The tractor trailer was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Advertisement
Since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 2,300 pounds of cocaine, more than 540 pounds of methamphetamine and 68,550 pounds of marijuana.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/china-s-war-strategy-why-it-s-working-part-one
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Border Patrol snags 100 pounds of cocaine at San Diego checkpoint - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/border-patrol-snags-100-pounds-of-cocaine-at-san-diego-checkpoint#ixzz1ZNIQEc5H
Friday, September 16, 2011
$4 million worth of drugs snagged by San Diego Border Patrol
San Diego Border Patrol agents arrested a legal resident for smuggling more than 330 pounds of cocaine inside a tractor trailer at the Interstate 8 checkpoint.
Agents encountered the 46-year-old male Mexican national at the checkpoint driving a bright red Freightliner tractor trailer. During the inspection process, Border Patrol became suspicious of the driver’s nervous demeanor and sent him to the secondary inspection station.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the tractor trailer resulting in a positive alert. Further inspection revealed two non-factory compartments inside the fuel tanks,” said Scott Simon, Border Patrol AgentSan Diego Sector Information and Communication Division. “Agents discovered 130 bundles of cocaine with a total weight of more than 334 pounds and an estimated street value of $3,346,600 inside the compartments.”
In a separate apprehension, Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Interstate 15 checkpoint nabbed a 21-year-old male U.S. citizen for smuggling 78 bundles of marijuana in the rear seat and trunk of his vehicle. “The total weight of the drugs was more than 416 pounds with an estimated street value of nearly $250, 000,” Simon said.
Advertisement
Border Patrol said the suspected smugglers and illicit narcotics were taken into custody and respectively turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Border Patrol Agents seized all the vehicles.
Since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 2,100 pounds of cocaine, 473 pounds of methamphetamine, and 68,550 pounds of marijuana.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com $4 million worth of drugs snagged by San Diego Border Patrol - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/4-million-worth-of-drugs-snagged-by-san-diego-border-patrol#ixzz1Y9geva23
Agents encountered the 46-year-old male Mexican national at the checkpoint driving a bright red Freightliner tractor trailer. During the inspection process, Border Patrol became suspicious of the driver’s nervous demeanor and sent him to the secondary inspection station.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the tractor trailer resulting in a positive alert. Further inspection revealed two non-factory compartments inside the fuel tanks,” said Scott Simon, Border Patrol AgentSan Diego Sector Information and Communication Division. “Agents discovered 130 bundles of cocaine with a total weight of more than 334 pounds and an estimated street value of $3,346,600 inside the compartments.”
In a separate apprehension, Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Interstate 15 checkpoint nabbed a 21-year-old male U.S. citizen for smuggling 78 bundles of marijuana in the rear seat and trunk of his vehicle. “The total weight of the drugs was more than 416 pounds with an estimated street value of nearly $250, 000,” Simon said.
Advertisement
Border Patrol said the suspected smugglers and illicit narcotics were taken into custody and respectively turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Border Patrol Agents seized all the vehicles.
Since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 2,100 pounds of cocaine, 473 pounds of methamphetamine, and 68,550 pounds of marijuana.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com $4 million worth of drugs snagged by San Diego Border Patrol - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/4-million-worth-of-drugs-snagged-by-san-diego-border-patrol#ixzz1Y9geva23
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Mercedes loaded with cocaine seized north of San Diego
Border Patrol Agents seized a Mercedes Benz loaded with 26 pounds of cocaine at the Interstate 5 border checkpoint just north of San Diego.
A K-9 team alerted agents to the trunk of the Mercedes where Border Patrol found a large black duffel bag containing 10 brick-shaped packages of cocaine. “The total estimated street value of the narcotics was $266,110,” according to a CBP press release.
A 31-year-old male American citizen was arrested and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) for suspicion of drug smuggling.
In a separate smuggling attempt, Border Patrol Agents apprehended a 23-year-old male Mexican national trying to smuggle 28 bundles of cocaine. Once agents sent the nervous driver to the secondary inspection area, K-9’s sniffed out the drugs worth approximately $285,000, in the wheel well of a Dodge Ram pickup.
The Mexican national, who was in the country legally, was taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the DEA for further investigation. The U.S. Border Patrol impounded both vehicles.
According to Border Patrol, since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector agents have confiscated more than 1,800 pounds of cocaine.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Mercedes loaded with cocaine seized north of San Diego - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/mercedes-loaded-with-cocaine-seized-north-of-san-diego#ixzz1XP1TuJgr
A K-9 team alerted agents to the trunk of the Mercedes where Border Patrol found a large black duffel bag containing 10 brick-shaped packages of cocaine. “The total estimated street value of the narcotics was $266,110,” according to a CBP press release.
A 31-year-old male American citizen was arrested and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) for suspicion of drug smuggling.
In a separate smuggling attempt, Border Patrol Agents apprehended a 23-year-old male Mexican national trying to smuggle 28 bundles of cocaine. Once agents sent the nervous driver to the secondary inspection area, K-9’s sniffed out the drugs worth approximately $285,000, in the wheel well of a Dodge Ram pickup.
The Mexican national, who was in the country legally, was taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the DEA for further investigation. The U.S. Border Patrol impounded both vehicles.
According to Border Patrol, since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector agents have confiscated more than 1,800 pounds of cocaine.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Mercedes loaded with cocaine seized north of San Diego - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/mercedes-loaded-with-cocaine-seized-north-of-san-diego#ixzz1XP1TuJgr
Monday, August 22, 2011
Border Patrol makes huge crystal meth drug bust in San Diego
Border Patrol agents at freeway checkpoints thwarted two major drug smuggling attempts and netted a combined seizure of $1.1 million of crystal methamphetamine.
BP agents came across two 19-year-old male United States citizens as they arrived at a San Diego freeway checkpoint. The pair was driving a 2003 Toyota Corolla when agents noticed inconsistent answers to general Border Patrol questions. That behavior landed the men in the secondary inspection center.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert to the driver’s side doors,” said a CBP Press Officer. “Agents searched the vehicle and discovered a hidden compartment inside a speaker box located in the trunk. Inside the compartment, agents found 24 bundles of methamphetamine with a total weight of 30.98 pounds and an estimated street value of $619,600.”
A second freeway checkpoint bust saw Border Patrol agents seize another load of meth worth approximately $470,000 just east San Diego. “Agents discovered 30 bundles totaling 23.5 pounds of the illicit narcotic in a non-factory compartment inside a vehicle’s rear bumper. In total, the two meth seizures are worth nearly $1.1 million on the street,” CBP said.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
The suspected smugglers and drugs were detained and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The vehicles were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Between October 1, 2010, and July 31, 2011, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 66,350 pounds of marijuana, 1,729 pounds of cocaine, and 393 pounds of methamphetamine.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
BP agents came across two 19-year-old male United States citizens as they arrived at a San Diego freeway checkpoint. The pair was driving a 2003 Toyota Corolla when agents noticed inconsistent answers to general Border Patrol questions. That behavior landed the men in the secondary inspection center.
“A Border Patrol K-9 team performed a cursory inspection of the vehicle resulting in a positive alert to the driver’s side doors,” said a CBP Press Officer. “Agents searched the vehicle and discovered a hidden compartment inside a speaker box located in the trunk. Inside the compartment, agents found 24 bundles of methamphetamine with a total weight of 30.98 pounds and an estimated street value of $619,600.”
A second freeway checkpoint bust saw Border Patrol agents seize another load of meth worth approximately $470,000 just east San Diego. “Agents discovered 30 bundles totaling 23.5 pounds of the illicit narcotic in a non-factory compartment inside a vehicle’s rear bumper. In total, the two meth seizures are worth nearly $1.1 million on the street,” CBP said.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
The suspected smugglers and drugs were detained and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The vehicles were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
Between October 1, 2010, and July 31, 2011, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 66,350 pounds of marijuana, 1,729 pounds of cocaine, and 393 pounds of methamphetamine.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
DEA Agents bust Iraqi-Sinaloa cartel drug smuggling/explosive ring in San Diego
Federal agents in San Diego broke up a drug trafficking ring involving Iraqi immigrants who worked with one of Mexico’s biggest drug cartel.
Approximately 60 Iraqi immigrants were rounded up and arrested just east of San Diego after the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) completed a six-month investigation. The DEA Agents also collected drugs, grenades, assault weapons and homemade explosives.
Many of the (Christian) Iraqi’s arrested fled the Middle East to avoid threats from al-Qaida during the continuing wars. Authorities say the immigrants worked in concert with the Sinaloa cartel to transport weapons and drugs to Detroit, Michigan.
The DEA seized crystal meth (18 pounds), marijuana (3,500 pounds), cocaine and other narcotics. The agents also recovered four IEDs, 30 firearms and $630,000 in cash.
William Sherman, DEA special agent in charge of San Diego told the Associated Press, “the ring was going to sell a portion of the 3,500 pounds of marijuana, believed to belong to the Sinaloa cartel led by Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman, who has become one of the world's richest and most-wanted men since he escaped from a Mexican prison 10 years ago.”
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
The recovery of explosives by DEA is particularly alarming as security across the country is heightened in preparation for the 10-year anniversary of 9/11.
One of the Iraqi’s immigrants told an undercover DEA agent that they were able to obtain more grenades from the Mexican Military personnel.
The arrested drug smugglers face a combination of state and/or federal charges of narcotics, weapon and explosive trafficking. The DEA also reported some of the organized crime arrestees were illegally in the country and will most likely be deported.
Nofel Noel Suleyman was charged with operating a continuing criminal enterprise a charge that carries a mandatory sentence of 20 years in prison.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Approximately 60 Iraqi immigrants were rounded up and arrested just east of San Diego after the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) completed a six-month investigation. The DEA Agents also collected drugs, grenades, assault weapons and homemade explosives.
Many of the (Christian) Iraqi’s arrested fled the Middle East to avoid threats from al-Qaida during the continuing wars. Authorities say the immigrants worked in concert with the Sinaloa cartel to transport weapons and drugs to Detroit, Michigan.
The DEA seized crystal meth (18 pounds), marijuana (3,500 pounds), cocaine and other narcotics. The agents also recovered four IEDs, 30 firearms and $630,000 in cash.
William Sherman, DEA special agent in charge of San Diego told the Associated Press, “the ring was going to sell a portion of the 3,500 pounds of marijuana, believed to belong to the Sinaloa cartel led by Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman, who has become one of the world's richest and most-wanted men since he escaped from a Mexican prison 10 years ago.”
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
The recovery of explosives by DEA is particularly alarming as security across the country is heightened in preparation for the 10-year anniversary of 9/11.
One of the Iraqi’s immigrants told an undercover DEA agent that they were able to obtain more grenades from the Mexican Military personnel.
The arrested drug smugglers face a combination of state and/or federal charges of narcotics, weapon and explosive trafficking. The DEA also reported some of the organized crime arrestees were illegally in the country and will most likely be deported.
Nofel Noel Suleyman was charged with operating a continuing criminal enterprise a charge that carries a mandatory sentence of 20 years in prison.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Monday, August 15, 2011
More than 11 pounds of black tar heroin seized in SUV engine
Border Patrol agents stationed at the State Route 94 checkpoint east of San Diego snagged 11 pounds of black tar heroin.
Agents stopped a red 1999 Dodge Durango over the weekend driven by a 39-year-old female U.S. citizen as she arrived at the checkpoint. During the inspection process, agents noticed the woman’s nervous demeanor and referred the driver to the secondary inspection area.
Once the Border Patrol K-9 team performed the examination of the vehicle, the K-9 alerted agents to the front of the vehicle where the heroin was discovered. Border Patrol thoroughly searched the Durango and discovered a non-factory compartment inside the vehicle’s intake manifold.
“Inside the compartment, agents discovered four foil-wrapped bundles of black tar heroin with a total weight of 11.1 pounds and an estimated street value of $133,200,” said Scott E. Simon, Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Information and Communication Division.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
“The suspected smuggler and drugs were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration,” Simon reported. “The vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.”
Since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 68,500 pounds of illicit drugs and taken a number of drug smugglers into custody.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com More than 11 pounds of black tar heroin seized in SUV engine - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/more-than-11-pounds-of-black-tar-heroin-seized-suv-engine#ixzz1V8xxrwDt
Agents stopped a red 1999 Dodge Durango over the weekend driven by a 39-year-old female U.S. citizen as she arrived at the checkpoint. During the inspection process, agents noticed the woman’s nervous demeanor and referred the driver to the secondary inspection area.
Once the Border Patrol K-9 team performed the examination of the vehicle, the K-9 alerted agents to the front of the vehicle where the heroin was discovered. Border Patrol thoroughly searched the Durango and discovered a non-factory compartment inside the vehicle’s intake manifold.
“Inside the compartment, agents discovered four foil-wrapped bundles of black tar heroin with a total weight of 11.1 pounds and an estimated street value of $133,200,” said Scott E. Simon, Border Patrol Agent for the San Diego Sector Information and Communication Division.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
“The suspected smuggler and drugs were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration,” Simon reported. “The vehicle was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.”
Since October 1, 2010, San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents have seized more than 68,500 pounds of illicit drugs and taken a number of drug smugglers into custody.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com More than 11 pounds of black tar heroin seized in SUV engine - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/more-than-11-pounds-of-black-tar-heroin-seized-suv-engine#ixzz1V8xxrwDt
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Border Patrol foils cocaine and crystal meth smugglers
Border Patrol agents east of San Diego stopped two separate drug smuggling efforts and seized more than $300,000 worth of cocaine and methamphetamine headed for the streets of Southern California.
Yesterday, Border Patrol agents came across a female U.S. citizen driving a Plymouth Neon at the Pine Valley checkpoint. She arrived with a 22-year-old male Mexican national passenger and during the inspection process agents became suspicious of the occupants nervous behavior and directed them to a secondary inspection.
Once the K-9 team inspected the car, agents found illegal drugs in the rear of the car. Further examination lead Border Patrol agents to a non-factory compartment inside the car’s rear bumper.
“Inside the compartment, agents discovered eight bundles of cocaine with a total weight of 22.05 pounds and an estimated street value of $220,500,” according to a Customs and Border Patrol press release. “The suspected smugglers and drugs were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.”
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
On Sunday agents detained a 19-year-old male United States citizen driving a 1998 Ford Mustang. Agents said the driver appeared nervous and directed him to a secondary inspection. The Border Patrol K-9 team inspected the car and alerted agents to the trunk of the Mustang.
“Agents searched the vehicle and discovered five packages of methamphetamine with a total of 5.38 pounds worth an estimated street value of $107,600. The suspected smuggler and drugs were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to a multi-agency drug taskforce,” CBP said.
Both cars were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
The San Diego Border Patrol checkpoints have confiscated more than 65,000 pounds of marijuana, 1,368 pounds of cocaine and 317 pounds of methamphetamine since October 1, 2010.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Border Patrol foils cocaine and crystal meth smugglers - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/border-patrol-foils-cocaine-and-crystal-meth-smugglers#ixzz1TGHTfxFo
Yesterday, Border Patrol agents came across a female U.S. citizen driving a Plymouth Neon at the Pine Valley checkpoint. She arrived with a 22-year-old male Mexican national passenger and during the inspection process agents became suspicious of the occupants nervous behavior and directed them to a secondary inspection.
Once the K-9 team inspected the car, agents found illegal drugs in the rear of the car. Further examination lead Border Patrol agents to a non-factory compartment inside the car’s rear bumper.
“Inside the compartment, agents discovered eight bundles of cocaine with a total weight of 22.05 pounds and an estimated street value of $220,500,” according to a Customs and Border Patrol press release. “The suspected smugglers and drugs were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration.”
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
On Sunday agents detained a 19-year-old male United States citizen driving a 1998 Ford Mustang. Agents said the driver appeared nervous and directed him to a secondary inspection. The Border Patrol K-9 team inspected the car and alerted agents to the trunk of the Mustang.
“Agents searched the vehicle and discovered five packages of methamphetamine with a total of 5.38 pounds worth an estimated street value of $107,600. The suspected smuggler and drugs were taken into custody and subsequently turned over to a multi-agency drug taskforce,” CBP said.
Both cars were seized by the U.S. Border Patrol.
The San Diego Border Patrol checkpoints have confiscated more than 65,000 pounds of marijuana, 1,368 pounds of cocaine and 317 pounds of methamphetamine since October 1, 2010.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Border Patrol foils cocaine and crystal meth smugglers - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/border-patrol-foils-cocaine-and-crystal-meth-smugglers#ixzz1TGHTfxFo
Monday, July 25, 2011
DEA breaks up San Diego cross-border drug smuggling ring
As part of the Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) “Project Delirium” San Diego agents arrested 24 suspected cross-border drug traffickers.
Those arrested were in procession of hundreds of pounds of illegal drugs and authorities said the smugglers belonged to brutal Mexican drug cartels.
The suspected traffickers were transporting large quantities of methamphetamine and other controlled substances into San Diego County. The seizure of the drugs prevented them from being distributed across the U.S., said William R. Sherman, acting special agent-in-charge of the San Diego DEA.
“When you take the arrests made here in San Diego and couple them with the coordinated nationwide effort this week against this violent organization, you see that we have disrupted their whole distribution chain, from the street seller to the middle man to the leaders of the organization in Mexico,” Sherman said.
The agents in San Diego seized more than 200 pounds of meth, 200 pounds of marijuana, one pound of cocaine and three pounds of heroin, Sherman said.
Today, the San Diego County District Attorney's Office filed multiple charges against 12 suspects for possession of methamphetamine, transport of drugs and hiring an under-aged minor to transport controlled substances.
The biggest offenders snagged in the DEA raid included; Francisco Saucedo, 46, Mayra Arroyo, 24, and Roberto Buenrostro Duran, 23, -all pleaded not guilty to the drug charges and held on $500,000 bond.
Advertisement
One search warrant recovered more than 18 pounds of crystal meth buried in the backyard of Arroyo. In another arrest agents nabbed Buenrostro transporting a backpack filled methamphetamine during a traffic stop.
Deputy District Attorney Allison Fomon said her office arraigned three other defendants on Friday and the rest will face a judge later in the week.
The prosecutor said the suspects face just five to eight years of jail time if convicted.
Officials said the year-and-a-half long sting targeted suspects in America with ties to the vicious Mexican drug trafficking organization La Familia, located in Michoacan, Mexico.
Last week federal authorities reported the U.S. arrested 1,980 perpetrators and seized $60 million in cash. The agents also confiscated nearly 2,770 pounds of methamphetamine, 6,000 pounds of cocaine, 1,000 pounds of heroin, 14,000 pounds of marijuana and $3.8 million in assets.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved
Continue reading on Examiner.com DEA breaks up San Diego cross-border drug smuggling ring - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/dea-breaks-up-san-diego-cross-border-drug-smuggling-ring#ixzz1TAj18iwY
Those arrested were in procession of hundreds of pounds of illegal drugs and authorities said the smugglers belonged to brutal Mexican drug cartels.
The suspected traffickers were transporting large quantities of methamphetamine and other controlled substances into San Diego County. The seizure of the drugs prevented them from being distributed across the U.S., said William R. Sherman, acting special agent-in-charge of the San Diego DEA.
“When you take the arrests made here in San Diego and couple them with the coordinated nationwide effort this week against this violent organization, you see that we have disrupted their whole distribution chain, from the street seller to the middle man to the leaders of the organization in Mexico,” Sherman said.
The agents in San Diego seized more than 200 pounds of meth, 200 pounds of marijuana, one pound of cocaine and three pounds of heroin, Sherman said.
Today, the San Diego County District Attorney's Office filed multiple charges against 12 suspects for possession of methamphetamine, transport of drugs and hiring an under-aged minor to transport controlled substances.
The biggest offenders snagged in the DEA raid included; Francisco Saucedo, 46, Mayra Arroyo, 24, and Roberto Buenrostro Duran, 23, -all pleaded not guilty to the drug charges and held on $500,000 bond.
Advertisement
One search warrant recovered more than 18 pounds of crystal meth buried in the backyard of Arroyo. In another arrest agents nabbed Buenrostro transporting a backpack filled methamphetamine during a traffic stop.
Deputy District Attorney Allison Fomon said her office arraigned three other defendants on Friday and the rest will face a judge later in the week.
The prosecutor said the suspects face just five to eight years of jail time if convicted.
Officials said the year-and-a-half long sting targeted suspects in America with ties to the vicious Mexican drug trafficking organization La Familia, located in Michoacan, Mexico.
Last week federal authorities reported the U.S. arrested 1,980 perpetrators and seized $60 million in cash. The agents also confiscated nearly 2,770 pounds of methamphetamine, 6,000 pounds of cocaine, 1,000 pounds of heroin, 14,000 pounds of marijuana and $3.8 million in assets.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved
Continue reading on Examiner.com DEA breaks up San Diego cross-border drug smuggling ring - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/dea-breaks-up-san-diego-cross-border-drug-smuggling-ring#ixzz1TAj18iwY
Thursday, July 21, 2011
San Diego Border Patrol agents seize nearly 1 million dollars in illicit drugs
U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Pine Valley checkpoint just east of San Diego, spoiled several smuggling efforts yesterday that resulted in the seizure of roughly three quarters of a million dollars of crystal methamphetamine.
Border Patrol agents pulled over a 23-year-old male American citizen driving a gold 1999 Chevrolet Lumina at the San Diego checkpoint.
“During inspection, agents became suspicious of the man’s nervous demeanor and referred him for a secondary inspection,” said CBP Agent Kurtis Woods.
“Agents noticed anomalies around the engine of the vehicle,” Woods explained. On further review agents “discovered numerous plastic bags of crystal methamphetamine hidden inside of the engine compartment totaling 5.82 pounds with an estimated street value of $104,760.”
In other freeway checkpoint stops, Border Patrol agents seized marijuana from drug smugglers valued at nearly $160,000.
“The second seizure took place at 9 a.m., when agents assigned to the checkpoint encountered the driver of a gold Chrysler 300. Agents noticed the driver, a 22-year-old male United States citizen, appeared nervous and referred him for a secondary inspection,” he explained.
A Border Patrol K-9 team inspected the Chrysler and found the marijuana inside the trunk and rear bumper.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
“Agents searched the vehicle and discovered an access door to a non-factory compartment near the spare tire containing a total of 30 cellophane-wrapped bundles of crystal methamphetamine,” Woods said. “A total of 35.05 pounds was discovered with an estimated street value of $630,900.”
In yet another bust at the I-8 checkpoint agents seized 146.7 pounds of marijuana with a street value of $88,000. “The marijuana was discovered after a Border Patrol K-9 team alerted to an auxiliary fuel tank in the bed of a white 2003 Ford F-150,” Border Patrol said. “A 29-year-old male U.S. citizen and his 22-year-old Mexican female passenger were arrested as a result of the incident.”
The Drug Enforcement Agency took custody of the suspected drugs and traffickers for further investigation. Border Patrol agents at the Pine Valley checkpoint seized all the vehicles.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com San Diego Border Patrol agents seize nearly 1 million dollars in drugs - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/san-diego-border-patrol-agents-seize-nearly-1-million-dollars-illicit-drugs#ixzz1SnHCGeGm
Border Patrol agents pulled over a 23-year-old male American citizen driving a gold 1999 Chevrolet Lumina at the San Diego checkpoint.
“During inspection, agents became suspicious of the man’s nervous demeanor and referred him for a secondary inspection,” said CBP Agent Kurtis Woods.
“Agents noticed anomalies around the engine of the vehicle,” Woods explained. On further review agents “discovered numerous plastic bags of crystal methamphetamine hidden inside of the engine compartment totaling 5.82 pounds with an estimated street value of $104,760.”
In other freeway checkpoint stops, Border Patrol agents seized marijuana from drug smugglers valued at nearly $160,000.
“The second seizure took place at 9 a.m., when agents assigned to the checkpoint encountered the driver of a gold Chrysler 300. Agents noticed the driver, a 22-year-old male United States citizen, appeared nervous and referred him for a secondary inspection,” he explained.
A Border Patrol K-9 team inspected the Chrysler and found the marijuana inside the trunk and rear bumper.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
“Agents searched the vehicle and discovered an access door to a non-factory compartment near the spare tire containing a total of 30 cellophane-wrapped bundles of crystal methamphetamine,” Woods said. “A total of 35.05 pounds was discovered with an estimated street value of $630,900.”
In yet another bust at the I-8 checkpoint agents seized 146.7 pounds of marijuana with a street value of $88,000. “The marijuana was discovered after a Border Patrol K-9 team alerted to an auxiliary fuel tank in the bed of a white 2003 Ford F-150,” Border Patrol said. “A 29-year-old male U.S. citizen and his 22-year-old Mexican female passenger were arrested as a result of the incident.”
The Drug Enforcement Agency took custody of the suspected drugs and traffickers for further investigation. Border Patrol agents at the Pine Valley checkpoint seized all the vehicles.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com San Diego Border Patrol agents seize nearly 1 million dollars in drugs - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/san-diego-border-patrol-agents-seize-nearly-1-million-dollars-illicit-drugs#ixzz1SnHCGeGm
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Dozens of suspected drug-cartel members arrested in San Diego
A multiagency criminal sweep in San Diego arrested dozens of alleged Mexican drug-cartel members today.
The task force titled, “Operation Second Sole,” arrested 43 “high value” drug-cartel suspects trafficking drugs, weapons and stolen property. Authorities said these assailants engaged in “incredible acts of violence” throughout San Diego communities.
“Many of the suspects arrested today have significant criminal histories and were considered to be armed and dangerous,” San Diego Police Lieutenant Kevin Ammon said. “The success of today’s operation rid the county of a serious threat to the safety and security of our citizens.”
Federal, state and local law enforcement officers used search warrants to take down and arrest 43 cartel suspects. The morning raids captured criminals without incident in and around San Diego County.
Ammon explained the joint task force was successful in “disrupting criminal enterprises.”
Law enforcement agencies launched ‘Operation Second Sole’ to “interrupt and prevent dangerous individuals from committing acts of violence in furtherance of narcotics trafficking,” said John Torres, ATF special-agent-in charge in Southern California.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
“As a result of this joint effort, suspects implicated in criminal activity ranged from homicide to armed robbery. (All) have been taken into custody along with (the) seized contraband, including illegal firearms and methamphetamine,” Torres said.
The Mexican cartel sweep is part of an effort to disrupt criminal gangs along the U.S. border and break up illicit drug rings.
The multi-agency taskforce included, San Diego Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives (BATFE), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), San Diego County District Attorney's Office, U.S. Attorney's Office, U.S. Marshals Service, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), California Border Protection Alliance Group (HIDTA), San Diego County Sheriff's Department and finally the Chula Vista Police Department.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Dozens of suspected drug-cartel members arrested in San Diego - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/dozens-of-suspected-drug-cartel-members-arrested-san-diego#ixzz1Sbamkwdu
The task force titled, “Operation Second Sole,” arrested 43 “high value” drug-cartel suspects trafficking drugs, weapons and stolen property. Authorities said these assailants engaged in “incredible acts of violence” throughout San Diego communities.
“Many of the suspects arrested today have significant criminal histories and were considered to be armed and dangerous,” San Diego Police Lieutenant Kevin Ammon said. “The success of today’s operation rid the county of a serious threat to the safety and security of our citizens.”
Federal, state and local law enforcement officers used search warrants to take down and arrest 43 cartel suspects. The morning raids captured criminals without incident in and around San Diego County.
Ammon explained the joint task force was successful in “disrupting criminal enterprises.”
Law enforcement agencies launched ‘Operation Second Sole’ to “interrupt and prevent dangerous individuals from committing acts of violence in furtherance of narcotics trafficking,” said John Torres, ATF special-agent-in charge in Southern California.
Advertisement
Click here to find out more!
“As a result of this joint effort, suspects implicated in criminal activity ranged from homicide to armed robbery. (All) have been taken into custody along with (the) seized contraband, including illegal firearms and methamphetamine,” Torres said.
The Mexican cartel sweep is part of an effort to disrupt criminal gangs along the U.S. border and break up illicit drug rings.
The multi-agency taskforce included, San Diego Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives (BATFE), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), San Diego County District Attorney's Office, U.S. Attorney's Office, U.S. Marshals Service, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), California Border Protection Alliance Group (HIDTA), San Diego County Sheriff's Department and finally the Chula Vista Police Department.
For more stories; http://www.examiner.com/homeland-security-in-national/kimberly-dvorak
© Copyright 2011 Kimberly Dvorak All Rights Reserved.
Continue reading on Examiner.com Dozens of suspected drug-cartel members arrested in San Diego - San Diego County Political Buzz | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/county-political-buzz-in-san-diego/dozens-of-suspected-drug-cartel-members-arrested-san-diego#ixzz1Sbamkwdu
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
