U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Hidalgo International Bridge have seized $177,500 in unreported U.S. currency during outbound examinations. The seizure occurred on May 20 when CBP officers selected a 2011 Dodge for a routine inspection and discovered five packages of bulk cash hidden within the vehicle.
Port Director Tater Ortiz from the Brownsville Port of Entry commented on the operation: "Our frontline CBP officers maintain strict vigilance whether they are conducting inbound or outbound examinations, and their attention to detail resulted in this significant currency seizure." He emphasized that such seizures help prevent illicit activities from profiting and secure the economy.
The confiscated currency has been taken into custody by CBP officers, while Homeland Security Investigations special agents have begun a criminal investigation into the matter.
Carrying more than $10,000 is not illegal; however, failing to declare amounts totaling $10,000 or more to a CBP officer upon entering or exiting the U.S., or concealing it with intent to evade reporting requirements, constitutes a federal offense. Non-compliance may lead to currency seizure or arrest. Individuals can petition for the return of seized currency but must prove its legitimate source and intended use.
CBP remains committed to safeguarding America’s borders through various means including innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust. It stands as America's largest law enforcement organization and first unified border management agency with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to protecting national security and facilitating lawful travel and trade.
