A former Customs and Border Protection Officer has been found guilty of importing over 1,200 pounds of marijuana from Mexico into the United States.
Luis Vasquez, 33, was a resident of Douglas, Arizona, when he was arrested and charged with multiple counts of drug trafficking.
The evidence presented in court showed that Vasquez used his position as an inspector at the Douglas Port of Entry to allow pick-up trucks loaded with marijuana to cross the international border without inspection.
On at least two occasions, Vasquez and other members of the conspiracy imported a large quantity of marijuana from Mexico into the United States.
Vasquez was found guilty on all counts, including conspiracy to import marijuana, unlawful importation of marijuana, conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.
The convictions carry a maximum penalty of 40 years imprisonment, a $5,000,000 fine, or both.
Vasquez was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service while awaiting sentencing, which is set for April 29, 2013, before U.S. District Judge David C. Bury.
The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection, and the Office of the Inspector General, and the Douglas, Ariz., Police Department.
Related Federal Cases
- Luis Fernando Enciso-Ulloa, Marijuana Conspiracy, Arizona 2015 · Illinois
- Raul Eduardo Rivera de la Torre, Marijuana Trafficking, Arizona 2007 · Washington
- Veronica Dittman, Fentanyl Distribution, Arizona 2023 · Florida
- Glen Adam Romero, Jr., Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl, Arizona 2023 · Pennsylvania
- Ramon Otero Jr., Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime, Arizona 2021 · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Arizona
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
ðŸâ€Â’ Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
Drug TraffickingDrug TraffickingDrug TraffickingDrug Trafficking