They got to the meat of the matter.
One woman faced a significant setback this week when she was caught smuggling over 700 pounds of illegal bologna across the US-Mexico border in Texas.
The 43-year-old American citizen attempted to enter the country at the Presidio port of entry from Mexico on Monday afternoon. During the primary inspection, she only declared a cooked meal, but upon further inspection, CBP officers discovered 40 rolls – 748 pounds – of Mexican bologna hidden in her car.
CBP agriculture specialists conducted a secondary inspection and found the prohibited meat. Due to the threat it poses to the US pork industry, the bologna was confiscated and destroyed.
Additionally, agents discovered 280 boxes of undeclared prescription drugs and over $7,600 in concealed currency hidden in the vehicle. The driver was issued a $1,000 civil penalty, and the vehicle was seized.
CBP Presidio Port Director Benito Reyes, Jr. emphasized the importance of declaring all items when entering the US to avoid fines and penalties, even if travelers believe the items are allowed.