Mirtza Ocana, Bulk Cash Smuggling, Florida 2024

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Mirtza Ocana Guilty of Bulk Cash Smuggling, Tampa FL, 2024

A hard-hitting crime has shaken the streets of Tampa, Florida. Mirtza Ocana, a 39-year-old Tampa resident, has pleaded guilty to one count of bulk cash smuggling and one count of conspiracy to commit bulk cash smuggling. This plea deal comes as a result of Ocana’s involvement in smuggling over $100,000 into the United States from Cuba.

According to court documents, Ocana returned to the United States on a flight from Cuba on February 5, 2024. Despite telling U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents that she had no cash to declare, Ocana concealed more than $31,000 in her luggage. After agents found this cash, Ocana admitted that she frequently smuggled cash into the United States from Cuba and that she had done so two to three times per month since June 2023. She also told agents that she was paid between $1,000 and $2,500 each time she smuggled cash.

Agents searched Ocana and discovered an additional $71,300 in cash hidden in her clothes. In total, agents found approximately $102,700 in cash concealed both in Ocana’s clothes and in her luggage. This staggering sum raises questions about the scope of Ocana’s operation and the people behind it.

The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Buchanan handling the prosecution. Ocana faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how far-reaching Ocana’s involvement in bulk cash smuggling goes. The Grimy Times will provide updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.

In a statement, U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg emphasized the importance of combating bulk cash smuggling. ‘This case demonstrates our commitment to protecting the financial integrity of our country,’ Handberg said.

The Grimy Times will continue to investigate and report on this story, bringing you the latest updates and insights into the world of crime.