Largest Marijuana Seizure Since 2001

Arizona Free Press
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PRESIDIO, TEXAS - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers performing anti-terror inspections at the Presidio port of entry seized 453.8 pounds of marijuana Wednesday (October 19) night. The seizure is the largest drug bust made at the remote crossing since CBP officers there discovered 1,722 pounds of marijuana in a cattle truck March 19, 2001. "This seizure is the direct result of the diligence and professionalism of CBP officers working at the Presidio crossing," said John Prewit, CBP Presidio Port Director. "The officers used a combination of their observational skills, interview techniques, technology and canines to make this seizure. The same tools we use to identify and stop terrorists and the implements of terror are effective in stopping drug smugglers as well." The drug seizure was made just before 8 p.m. Wednesday night when a 1989 Chevrolet pickup arrived at the port from Mexico. CBP officers interviewed the driver and then directed the vehicle to the gamma ray inspection system. A scan revealed abnormalities in the bed of the pickup. CBP officers then scanned the truck with a "Buster" density meter that showed high readings consistent with hidden contraband. CBP drug sniffing dog "Storm" searched the truck and alerted to the bed and floor of the vehicle. CBP officers located a hidden trap door at the rear of the truck leading to a compartment containing marijuana-filled bundles. A total of 212 packages of marijuana were removed from the floor and bed of the pickup. The seized drugs have an estimated street value of $453,800. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) special agents arrested the driver of the vehicle, 43-year-old Guillermo Galvan of Chihuahua City, Chihuahua, Mexico. He made his initial appearance before a federal magistrate in Alpine today and was charged with importation and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. He is being held without bond pending a preliminary hearing next week.