Erika Chacon, Pesticide Smuggling, CA 2021

Calexico, CA – Erika Chacon, a California resident, received one year of probation, 52 hours of community service, and a $2,500 fine in December 2020 for attempting to illegally import restricted pesticides from Mexico. The case, investigated by federal authorities, highlights a growing trend of illicit pesticide procurement linked to illegal marijuana grow operations within the United States.

Chacon was initially apprehended in September 2019 while attempting to cross the border with a concealed stash of agricultural chemicals. Border Patrol agents discovered one bottle of Qufuran caborfuran L-350 and ten 1-liter bottles of Metaldane 600 metamidofos hidden within her vehicle. Both pesticides are restricted for use in the U.S. due to potential health and environmental hazards.

Federal investigators believe the pesticides were intended for use in clandestine marijuana cultivation sites. These operations frequently rely on banned or restricted chemicals to maximize yields and combat pests, often disregarding the significant risks posed to both consumers and the environment. The use of such substances leaves dangerous residues on the harvested product and can contaminate surrounding ecosystems.

The illicit trade in these pesticides is driven by the high demand from illegal growers seeking to cut costs and avoid regulatory oversight. While legal cannabis operations are subject to strict testing and safety standards, illegal grows operate with impunity, posing a threat to public health and legitimate agricultural businesses. Authorities are increasingly focusing on disrupting the supply chain of these prohibited substances.

According to court documents, Chacon pleaded guilty to violating 19 U.S.C. 1433 and 19 U.S.C. 1436(a), federal statutes pertaining to the unlawful importation of merchandise. These laws are designed to protect the U.S. from harmful or unregulated products. The penalties levied against Chacon – probation, community service, and a substantial fine – reflect the seriousness with which federal authorities view this type of smuggling operation.

This case underscores the complex link between drug trafficking, environmental crime, and public health. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate similar incidents, aiming to dismantle the networks facilitating the flow of illegal pesticides and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division played a key role in building the case against Chacon, working in conjunction with Customs and Border Protection.

Key Facts

• Defendant: Erika Chacon
• State: California
• Year of Sentencing: 2021 (Apprehended 2019)
• Pesticides Smuggled: Qufuran caborfuran L-350 and Metaldane 600 metamidofos
• Laws Violated: 19 U.S.C. 1433, 19 U.S.C. 1436(a)
• Penalties: One year probation, 52 hours community service, $2,500 fine
• Suspected Use: Illegal marijuana cultivation

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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