BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The United States Attorney's Office says a man has been arrested after allegedly attempting to smuggle nearly 1,800 pounds of marijuana over the Peace Bridge into the United States.
Officials say 21-year-old Arshdeep Singh of India attempted to cross the Peace Bridge into the United States in a commercial truck carrying coffee makers during the early morning hours of June 5.
The truck was referred for a further exam which showed inconsistencies between the cargo in the nose of the trailer and the rest of the load and the trailer did not have a commercial seal securing the back doors.
Officials say a physical exam was then conducted, officers unloaded the properly identified coffee makers and then found four skids containing seven crates that were different from the rest of the load.
The crates contained coffee grounds, located beneath the coffee grounds were approximately 1,608 vacuum sealed bundles of suspected marijuana weighing nearly 1,800 pounds with an estimated value of $2.5 million.
“Recent events have created unique challenges for our Office and our partners in law enforcement as we work together to keep our communities and our Nation safe and secure,” stated U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. “While the COVID-19 response may have slowed commerce across our Nation’s borders, this arrest proves not only that criminals persist in their efforts to break the law but that law enforcement remains vigilant in its effort to uphold it.”
Singh was arrested and charged with possessing with intent to distribute and importation of marijuana, the charges carry a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of 40 years. He made an appearance before a judge and is currently being detained.
