Tucson Sector Border Patrol Arrests Marijuana Backpacker Wearing Booties

Tucson, Ariz. – Communications Division Border Patrol agents assigned to the Tucson Sector, a component of the Joint Field Command-Arizona, apprehended a Mexican national yesterday in connection with the seizure of 187 pounds of marijuana. The man, who was wearing booties on his shoes to conceal his footprints, illegally entered the United States and was transporting the marijuana in a handmade backpack.

Smugglers such as this one who was apprehended on Oct. 13, 2011 south of Three Points, ariz. often wear carpet shoes in an attempt to conceal their footprints and avoid detection.

Agents patrolling Highway 286 observed an individual cross the highway carrying a marijuana-filled backpack and immediately interdicted the man. After searching the area, agents recovered three more backpacks filled with contraband but the other drug smugglers had fled the area.

Increased deployments of manpower, infrastructure and technology, combined with a robust consequence delivery system, continue to pressure transnational criminal organizations. Smugglers commonly abandon their drug loads rather than risk apprehension and prosecution. Agents remain dedicated to detecting smuggling attempts and preventing illegal drugs from entering our communities.

	A U.S. Border Patrol agent from the Tucson Sector places a smuggler into a patrol vehicle as other agents secure the remaining bundles of marijuana.

Customs and Border Protection welcomes assistance from the community. Citizens can report suspicious activity to the Border Patrol by calling (877) 872-7435 toll free. All calls will be answered and remain anonymous.

CBP announced the JFC-AZ in February 2011 as an organizational realignment that brings together the Tucson and Yuma Border Patrol Sectors and their Air Branches, as well as the Tucson Field Office, under a unified command structure. JFC-AZ integrates CBP’s border security, commercial enforcement and trade facilitation missions to more effectively meet the unique challenges faced in Arizona. Follow us on Twitter @CBPArizona or please visit the CBP Arizona Web site. ( CBP Arizona )

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.