CBP Finds Over Half a Million in Cash Hidden in Front Tires and Airbags
(Tuesday, October 16, 2007)
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Mayaguez, P.R. – On October 15, 2007, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers working the outbound operations at the Ferry terminal intercepted a vehicle with currency concealed in its tires.
A 32-year old male Dominican National along with a 2004 Dodge Durango was inspected by CBP prior to departing on the Caribbean Express to the Dominican Republic. CBP Officer explained currency reporting requirements to the passenger during the interview. When Customs and Border Protection Officers inspected the vehicle they removed and X-rayed the tires and noticed abnormalities in the images. Both front tires were opened and found full with cash. A total of $302,220 was found inside the tires. Further inspection of the vehicle disclosed an additional $270,000 hidden in the airbag compartment area. Total currency seized was $572,744, vehicle was also seized and passenger was placed under arrest.
There is no limit on the amount of money that can be taken out of or brought into the United States, travelers that have $10,000 or more in currency or monetary instruments must fill out a "Report of International Transportation of Currency and Monetary Instruments". If assistance is required, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer can help with filling out the form. Reporting requirements for the exportation and importation of monetary instruments are outlined in 31 USC 5316. Failure to declare monetary instruments in amounts of or over $10,000 can result in its seizure.
“Customs and Border Protection Officers are on the lookout for currency violations and possible money laundering that might be related to illegal activity attempting to pass through our borders.” said, Marcelino Borges, Director Field Operations.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
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