Phillip Junior Webb, Methamphetamine Trafficking, California 2018

A San Diego teenager pleaded guilty in federal court to charges that he recruited classmates to smuggle methamphetamine and fentanyl, officials announced today. Phillip Junior Webb, a senior at Castle Park High School in Chula Vista, was taken into custody by federal agents.

According to court documents, Webb, 17, conspired with others to smuggle methamphetamine and fentanyl into the United States. The 153 percent spike in drug seizures from minors at ports of entry in the Southern District of California has increased significantly in recent years, with 39 seizures in FY 2016 and 99 in FY 2017.

As of now, Webb is facing serious consequences for his actions. He pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of methamphetamine trafficking. The exact sentence or outcome of the case is yet to be determined.

Law enforcement officials are concerned about the exploitation of minors by drug cartels. U.S. Attorney Adam Braverman stated that juveniles need to know that consequences are real and dramatic. "Juveniles need to understand there that no matter what they have been told, there are consequences for smuggling narcotics, not to mention the dangers of working with transnational criminal organizations," said Pete Flores, director of field operations for CBP in San Diego.

Webb's case highlights the growing problem of minors getting caught up in the world of organized crime. At least 70 juveniles were arrested at the Port of Entry trying to smuggle methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and deadly Fentanyl into San Diego County in less than a year, according to District Attorney Summer Stephan. The billboards, located in San Diego and Imperial counties as well as one in Mexico, feature stark warnings to minors that smuggling drugs could cost them their freedom and their futures.

"In less than a year, at least 70 juveniles were arrested at the Port of Entry trying to smuggle methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and deadly Fentanyl into San Diego County," said District Attorney Summer Stephan. "These are young people who are being used by dangerous, organized criminals and who do not fully understand the danger they are putting themselves in and the harm and devastation to potential drug users."

Webb's case is a stark reminder of the consequences of getting involved in the world of organized crime. Officials are urging parents, teachers, and students to be aware of the dangers of drug smuggling and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The case is a testament to the importance of educating the community about the risks of getting caught up in the world of organized crime.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/youth-are-smuggling-drugs-behalf-cartels-law-enforcers-launch-education-campaign