The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a new two-count indictment against a Mexican man for smuggling methamphetamine into the United States from Mexico.
The individual was charged one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of importation of methamphetamine into the United States from Mexico.
Jose Luis Vazquez-Gonzalez allegedly crossed the border with more than 150 pounds of the illegal drug, according to the DOJ.
“The indictment alleges that on June 18, 2022, Vazquez-Gonzalez entered the United States through San Luis, Arizona. At the Port of Entry, Customs and Border Protection officers discovered 155 packages hidden in Vazquez-Gonzalez’s car. The packages contained a white crystal-like substance that tested positive for methamphetamine. The combined weight of the packages was over 163 pounds,” a release from the organization explained.
If fully convicted, the maximum penalty for the offenses is life in prison and a $10 million fine.
The indictment underscores the crisis gripping border communities and states as illegal drugs pour over the border.
Around the same time as the stop of Vazquez-Gonzalez, border agents stopped a car on June 16 and found 120 pounds of methamphetamine. Based on information from Customs and Border Protection, law enforcement officials also found a “Smith and Wesson 9 mm pistol, two magazines and 19 rounds of ammunition.” The individual was traveling with multiple children in the car.
“Smugglers continue to exploit vulnerable populations both inside and outside the United States,” said Chief John Modlin of the Tucson Sector. “Smugglers promise easy cash in exchange for a quick trip to the border, but agents and officers are on the lookout for suspicious vehicles. Thankfully, these agents prevented over 120 pounds of methamphetamine from making its way into communities throughout the United States.”
Republicans have routinely slammed President Joe Biden and Democrats for their lack of action on the issue.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Arizona Sun Times and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
