TUCSON – On Dec. 7, after Border Patrol agents using multi-surveillance capabilities detected what appeared to be drugs being launched from Mexico into Naco, Arizona, two agents responded to investigate.
When agents arrived at the reported location, they discovered two juvenile U.S. citizens with a bundle of marijuana believed to have been fired from an air cannon in Mexico. The bundle, weighing about 34 pounds, was molded into a cylindrical shape approximately the diameter to fit in a 55-gallon drum.
Border Patrol agents seized the narcotics and turned the two juveniles over to the Cochise County Attorney for prosecution under Operation Immediate Consequence.
“Smuggling organizations often take advantage of teens, lying to them about their chances of being prosecuted for their roles in smuggling attempts,” said Patrol Agent in Charge of the Brian A. Terry Border Patrol Station Michael Hyatt. “In many cases, they do not realize the true consequences of their actions.”
If convicted in this case, the juveniles face 18 months of incarceration.
Federal law allows the Border Patrol to charge individuals by complaint, a method that allows the filing of charges for criminal activity without inferring guilt. An individual is presumed innocent unless and until competent evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling 1-877-872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.
