CBP seizes $53,800 in undeclared cash from traveler headed to Jamaica
Key Points(5)
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized more than $53,800 in undeclared U.S.
- currency from a traveler preparing to depart Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on a flight to Kingston, Jamaica.
- The seizure occurred on July 1 when CBP officers were conducting inspections of passengers departing on an international flight.
- The traveler declared that they were not carrying currency, but officers discovered and verified the cash during the inspection.
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) responded to the scene, and the individual was arrested.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized more than $53,800 in undeclared U.S. currency from a traveler preparing to depart Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on a flight to Kingston, Jamaica.
The seizure occurred on July 1 when CBP officers were conducting inspections of passengers departing on an international flight. The traveler declared that they were not carrying currency, but officers discovered and verified the cash during the inspection.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) responded to the scene, and the individual was arrested. Federal prosecutors accepted charges for money laundering under Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 1956.
“Criminal organizations often rely on bulk cash smuggling to move illicit proceeds across international borders,” said Daniel Alonso, director of field operations for CBP’s Miami and Tampa Field Office.
“CBP officers remain vigilant in identifying these violations and work closely with our law enforcement partners to disrupt transnational criminal activity while protecting the integrity of our nation’s borders,” he added.
CBP said there is no limit on the amount of currency or monetary instruments travelers may carry into or out of the United States. However, anyone transporting more than $10,000 must report the funds by filing a FinCEN Form 105, Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments.
Authorities warned that failing to declare currency or submitting false information can result in the seizure of funds and may lead to civil or criminal penalties.
