James Owens, Chief Patrol Agent of U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), shared that multiple warrants led to the seizure of fentanyl, cocaine, meth, handguns, assault weapons in New York. This recent seizure is part of USBP's ongoing efforts to curtail drug trafficking and illegal arms possession in the country.
"Rochester Agents, a K9 team, and local task force officers served multiple warrants resulting in the seizure of fentanyl, cocaine, meth, handguns, assault weapons & money. Great work keeping guns out of criminal hands & dangerous drugs out of our communities. #USBP," said James Owens.
This announcement comes alongside other significant enforcement actions by border patrol agents. The news comes on the heels of Wellesley Island Station Border Patrol seizing roughly 68 pounds of marijuana, according to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) news release.
Marijuana trafficking continues to be a major concern for law enforcement agencies in New York State. In New York state, the trafficking of marijuana remains illegal under state and federal law, according to the CBP news release. Earlier this month an immigration inspection on State Route 411 conducted by Border Patrol agents during a traffic stop led to the discovery of two large garbage bags that contained 65 vacuum-sealed packages of marijuana that were being smuggled into the U.S. The estimated value of the marijuana was $209,000.
Efforts against smuggling operations are seen as vital for preventing financial gains for criminal organizations. "Removing smuggled marijuana helps prevent the financial gain that criminal organizations benefit from," said Patrol Agent in Charge Andrew Regan. "The partnership the Border Patrol has with our local prosecutors is crucial in the removal of illegal narcotics."
Not only drugs but the individuals involved in such activities are also being taken into custody. According to the CBP news release, the male motorist was a U.S. citizen who was handed over to the Metro-Jefferson County Drug Task Force to face charges for criminal possession of cannabis in the first degree. As of Nov. 15, the suspect was still in custody with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
The efforts by border control extend beyond individual cases, aiming for wider security across state borders. According to the CBP media release, the objective of the Buffalo sector is to safeguard the border between ports of entry in New York and Pennsylvania comprising of 341 linear maritime border miles.
