A 22-year-old United States citizen, who resides in Guyana was arrested and charged with the unlawful importation of a controlled substance after cocaine was seized at the John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Reports are that Zacharie Scott attempted to smuggle approximately 40 pounds (18.45 kilograms) of cocaine into the United States from Guyana.
The discovery at customs
The arrest occurred on Friday, as Scott underwent a routine secondary screening by Customs Agents at the airport.
Agents examining Scott’s two suitcases found bags of frozen shrimp concealing blocks of a white powdery substance.
Tests later confirmed this substance to be cocaine.
Confession and potential payoff
During the investigation, Scott purportedly confessed to authorities about his knowledge and involvement in the drug smuggling.
He admitted to bringing the cocaine into the U.S. with the expectation of receiving a payment of up to US$6,000 for his illicit service.
The value of the seized cocaine
Reports are that the street value of the seized cocaine ranges between US$239,850 and US$479,700.
If convicted, Scott faces up to 20 years in prison.
At his arraignment in a Brooklyn Federal Court, presided over by Magistrate Judge Joseph Marutollo on Saturday, Scott was ordered to remain in custody.
A bail hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, January 23.
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