U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Gateway International Bridge in Brownsville, Texas, have seized $137,000 in unreported U.S. currency during an outbound inspection.
According to CBP, the incident occurred on Friday, August 22. Officers stopped a 25-year-old female United States citizen who was driving a 2013 Chevrolet for a routine outbound inspection. During a secondary examination of the vehicle, officers discovered bulk cash totaling $137,000 hidden inside.
Port Director Tater Ortiz commented on the seizure: “Our CBP officers’ vigilance led to this significant currency seizure, preventing funds from exiting the country, which can often be used to support illegal activities. Outbound bulk cash seizures such as these help to further disrupt criminal enterprises by depriving them of the ability to profit from alleged illicit activity.”
The driver was turned over to Cameron County Sheriff’s office for further investigation following the seizure of both the vehicle and the currency.
CBP reminds travelers that carrying more than $10,000 is not illegal; however, failing to declare currency or monetary instruments totaling $10,000 or more upon entry or exit from the United States is a federal offense. Concealing funds with intent to evade reporting requirements can result in seizure and possible arrest. Individuals may petition for return of seized currency but must prove that its source and intended use are legitimate.
CBP serves as America’s largest law enforcement organization and operates as a unified border management agency with over 65,000 employees working across various environments to protect lawful travel and trade while enforcing national security measures.
For additional updates and information about regional operations or related news stories involving CBP activities in South Texas and beyond, readers can follow official social media accounts including X at @DFOLaredo and Instagram at @dfolaredo as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas.
