Santiago Contreras Juarez, Pesticide Smuggling, CA 2021

Calexico, CA – Santiago Contreras Juarez, 2021, received time served and a four-year supervised release sentence following his arrest for attempting to illegally import highly toxic pesticide, Zinc Phosphide, into the United States from Mexico. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division, highlights a growing trend of illicit pesticide use linked to illegal marijuana cultivation operations throughout California and the wider US.

On October 26, 2020, Juarez was apprehended while transporting ten containers of “Fosfuro De Zinc,” commonly known as Zinc Phosphide, across the border. The substance is a potent pesticide, often used to control rodents but lethally dangerous to humans and wildlife. Juarez initially claimed he purchased the pesticide from a veterinarian in Tijuana on behalf of a friend, who allegedly intended to use it for termite control on a California farm growing plum and orange trees. However, investigators quickly determined the intended end use was far more sinister.

Federal authorities suspect the pesticide was destined for clandestine marijuana grows—illegal operations that frequently utilize banned and unregulated chemicals to maximize yields. These grows, often located on public lands or remote private properties, pose significant environmental hazards due to the widespread contamination of soil and waterways. Zinc Phosphide is particularly concerning as it is acutely toxic and can persist in the environment, harming non-target species and potentially entering the food chain.

The EPA’s investigation revealed a pattern of illegal pesticide procurement and use supporting the burgeoning black market marijuana industry. Growers often bypass regulations and utilize substances banned in the United States due to their toxicity and environmental impact. The use of these pesticides not only jeopardizes the health of those involved in the cultivation process but also poses a severe threat to the surrounding ecosystems and communities.

Juarez was charged with violating Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. 545, which prohibits the knowing and willful introduction of an unregistered pesticide into interstate commerce. While Juarez received time served for his offense, he was also ordered to pay $1,550 in restitution, presumably to cover costs associated with the investigation and potential environmental remediation. The relatively lenient sentence has drawn some criticism from environmental advocacy groups, who argue that stricter penalties are needed to deter future smuggling attempts.

Key Facts

• Defendant: Santiago Contreras Juarez
• State: California
• Year: 2021
• Crime: Illegal Pesticide Smuggling
• Pesticide: Zinc Phosphide (Fosfuro De Zinc)
• Statute Violated: 18 U.S.C. 545
• Penalty: Time served, 4 years supervised release, $1,550 restitution
• Suspected Link: Illegal Marijuana Grows

The EPA continues to actively investigate and prosecute cases involving the illegal import and use of pesticides, working in conjunction with other federal and state law enforcement agencies to dismantle these harmful operations. The agency urges anyone with information regarding illegal pesticide activity to report it to the EPA’s National Enforcement Hotline.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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