Traveler may forfeit $60K after traffic stop
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Forfeiture proceedings are expected in La Salle County by the 81st Judicial District Attorney’s Office for a quantity of cash that was seized Monday afternoon, January 16, from a vehicle traveling through La Salle County towards Laredo.
A brief report on the case indicates sheriff’s deputies were on routine patrol on IH-35 in the southern portion of La Salle County on Monday when they had cause to effect the traffic stop of a southbound vehicle.
The report shows deputies were suspicious of the vehicle and summoned a K-9 officer whose dog alerted them to the possible presence of contraband in the vehicle.
The bundled US currency discovered in the vehicle totaled $60,000, according to the sheriff’s office, and the vehicle driver was unable to provide documentation proving legitimate ownership.
The sheriff’s office has withheld further details of the case and has not indicated whether an arrest has been made in connection with the alleged attempt at smuggling cash to the US border.
While the investigation into the origins and possible destination of the cash remains underway, Sheriff Anthony Zertuche said on Monday that he is pleased with the dedication and attention to detail by his officers that resulted in the discovery.
“Interstate 35 has routinely been used by drug cartels and international trafficking organizations for the smuggling of narcotics, currency, weapons, and humans,” the sheriff said. “My department will remain vigilant and will work hard to continue interdiction of these smuggling attempts.”
The asset forfeiture process will begin with civil proceedings held in district court, according to the sheriff’s office.