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Two Indicted for Smuggling Millions into the United States
MIAMI, FL – In a shocking turn of events, two individuals have pleaded guilty to smuggling over $2.4 million into the United States from the Dominican Republic. Mildrey De La Caradid Gonzalez, 61, and Milka Yarlin Alfaro, 40, will face a statutory maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment.
The crime took place on June 4, 2016, when the duo arrived at Miami International Airport with seven pieces of luggage. According to court records, Alfaro and Gonzalez knew they were carrying excess cash, but misrepresented the amount on a customs form to evade reporting requirements.
During a search of their luggage, Customs and Border Patrol Officers discovered approximately $2,463,759.00 in hidden cash, concealed in diapers, baby wipes, makeup pouches, and purses. Both defendants admitted to packing the luggage together and concealing the currency to avoid detection.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Mackenzie Duane, who commended the investigative efforts of ICE-HSI, ICE-OPR, DHS-OIG, USSS, CBP, and HHS-OIG. Gonzalez and Alfaro are scheduled to be sentenced on February 2, 2017, before U.S. Chief District Judge K. Michael Moore.
The case highlights the importance of customs enforcement and the consequences of attempting to smuggle large sums of cash into the country. The defendants’ actions were a serious breach of trust, and their punishment will serve as a warning to others who may attempt similar schemes.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida has worked tirelessly to bring this case to justice, and their efforts will not go unnoticed. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what other individuals may be implicated in this large-scale smuggling operation.
This case is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of financial crime in our communities. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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