Yuma News Now

Douglas, Arizona - United States Customs and Border Protection officers made two drug busts just hours apart which resulted in the seizure of more than $80,000 of marijuana.

Yesterday at about 8 a.m.., a 53-year-old, woman accompanied by her pet dog, was attempting to enter the United States. The lady was identified as a U.S. citizen and resident of Douglas. The CBP officers recognized the lady as a frequent traveler. During a brief interview the CBP officers became suspicious of the vehicle that the lady was driving.

A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of marijuana concealed in the side panels of the vehicle. The total weight of marijuana was approximately 34 pounds with a street value of more than $54,000.

A few hours later CBP officers were screening traffic when they came in contact with a 52-year-old man. The man was identified as a Mexican National and resident of Douglas. The man and his vehicle were selected for an inspection which resulted in the seizure of more than 16 pounds of marijuana concealed in a compartment behind the backseat. The marijuana had a street value of more than $26,000.

“This is just one example, of how alert our CBP officers have to be every hour of every day,” said Michael Humphries, port director at the Douglas port of entry. “CBP officers see many of theses travelers several times a day, it is unfortunate however, that once in a while a few of theses frequent travelers are tempted by the fast money of the drug smuggler. CBP officers know that sensitivity to detail can never be compromised.”

The marijuana and vehicles were seized and the two Douglas residents were turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.