76 Pounds Of Marijuana Seized From 'Trusted Trader' At Ambassador Bridge
DETROIT (WWJ) - A 56-year-old member of the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol's trusted trader program is facing charges after authorities say he tried to smuggle 76 pounds of marijuana across the Ambassador Bridge.
The incident happened on Wednesday when the truck driver arrived at the Fort Street Cargo Facility hauling a shipment of auto parts. After declaring he only had auto parts on board, the driver was referred for an x-ray examination.
During the examination, officers discovered unusual shapes in the rear of the trailer. After breaking the seals on the trailer and opening the doors, two large duffel bags with 68 bundles of a green leafy substance were discovered. Field testing determined the substance was marijuana.
"The Free and Secure Trade program affords low risk drivers to move through customs between the United States and Canada with minimal delay," John Nowak, Detroit's Acting Port Director, said in a statement. "Violations will result in immediate revocation and in this case, prosecution to the fullest extent of the law."
The marijuana was seized and the driver was turned over to Homeland Security for further investigation. His name was not released.
The Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program is a commercial clearance program for known low-risk shipments entering the United States from Canada and Mexico. Initiated after 9/11, this innovative trusted traveler/trusted shipper program allows expedited processing for commercial carriers who have completed background checks and fulfill certain eligibility requirements. FAST members use a special lane at border crossings to expedite their travels.
