“Sol Prendido” for Borderland Beat
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized $125,306 at the Gateway to the Americas International Bridge. A man was arrested in relation to the case. He was later indicted in a Laredo federal court. The indictment alleges that the money smuggled was $122,750.
A man accused of smuggling more than $120,000 out of the United States has been indicted in a Laredo federal court, authorities.
A grand jury recently charged Ruben Vargas Jr., 36, with bulk cash smuggling out of the United States. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison.
Although the complaint initially states that Vargas tried smuggling $125,306, the indictment alleges he tried smuggling $122,750.
In September, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Tactical Analytical Unit identified a male with border crossing patterns consistent with smuggling activity. Authorities identified the individual as Vargas, according to the arrest affidavit.
Vargas made frequent short trips from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, to San Antonio, often returning to Nuevo Laredo the same day or less than 24 hours later. The investigation revealed that Vargas used multiple vehicles, including a gray 2014 Chevrolet Malibu, states the affidavit.
At about 10:39 p.m. Nov. 20, CBP officers observed the gray Malibu attempting to exit the United States via the Gateway to the Americas International Bridge. Vargas gave a negative declaration for more than $10,000 to CBP officers.
A non-intrusive inspection of the Malibu revealed anomalies in the passenger compartment. CBP officers inspected the compartment and discovered bundles of money hidden in a space behind the passenger side glove box, according to court documents.
Homeland Security Investigations special agents responded to take over the case. During an interview, Vargas stated he was the owner of the Malibu. He also claimed ownership of two cellphones found in his possession, authorities said.
