SAN DIEGO, CA – Rosa Moreno, a California resident, has avoided jail time but will face financial repercussions after being convicted of illegally importing a restricted pesticide into the United States. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and prosecuted by the Department of Justice, highlights the ongoing struggle to prevent dangerous and unapproved agricultural chemicals from crossing the border.
According to court documents, Moreno transported 24 bottles of Metaldane 600, a pesticide prohibited for use in the U.S., across the border from Mexico in her personal vehicle. The EPA has not publicly disclosed the intended use of the chemical, but its importation violates federal law designed to protect human health and the environment. The agency routinely monitors border crossings and works with Customs and Border Protection to intercept illegal pesticides and other harmful substances.
The investigation into Moreno’s activities began with a routine inspection at a port of entry. Authorities discovered the undeclared bottles of Metaldane 600 during a vehicle search. Subsequent analysis confirmed the substance’s identity and its prohibited status within the U.S. The EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division took the lead on building the case, gathering evidence to demonstrate Moreno’s knowledge of the pesticide’s illegal status and her intent to import it.
Moreno was charged with violating Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. 371 – Conspiracy to Defraud the United States. While the initial charge suggests a broader conspiracy, court records indicate Moreno acted alone in the smuggling attempt. Prosecutors argued that importing an unapproved pesticide posed a significant risk to agricultural workers, consumers, and the environment. However, a plea deal was reached, resulting in a lighter sentence.
Sentencing and Restitution
On June 17, 2021, Moreno was sentenced to two years of probation. In addition to the probationary period, she was ordered to pay $3,052 in restitution. The restitution is intended to cover the costs incurred by the EPA during the investigation and analysis of the seized pesticide. While the sentence is less severe than potential jail time, it serves as a warning to others considering similar illegal activities.
The EPA continues to emphasize the dangers of illegally imported pesticides. These products often lack proper labeling, safety data, and quality control, potentially leading to serious health consequences and environmental damage. The agency urges anyone with information regarding the illegal importation or sale of pesticides to report it to the EPA’s National Enforcement Hotline.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Rosa Moreno
- Crime: Illegal Pesticide Smuggling (Metaldane 600)
- State: California
- Year: 2021
- Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 371 (Conspiracy to Defraud the United States)
- Penalty: Two years probation and $3,052 restitution
- Pesticide: Metaldane 600 – prohibited for use in the U.S.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and provide updates as they become available.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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