LAREDO, Texas – A 34-year-old Mexican man has been charged with bulk cash smuggling, announced U.S. Attorney Jennifer B. Lowery.
A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against Feliciano Quintanar-Hernandez, 34, for smuggling $195,731 into Mexico.
Originally charged by criminal complaint, he made his first appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher dos Santos Jan. 31, at which time he was ordered into custody pending further criminal proceedings. He is expected to appear for his initial appearance on the indictment in the near future.
On Jan. 29, Quintanar attempted to exit the United States through the Juarez-Lincoln Port of Entry in Laredo as a solo driver in a pickup truck, according to the charges. There, he allegedly gave a negative declaration for possessing currency over $10,000.
The charges allege law enforcement inspected the pickup truck where they found a total of $195,731 hidden in the bed and center consol.
As a non-immigrant Visa holder, he is allegedly in violation of the terms of his Visa.
If convicted, Quintanar faces up to five years in prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Isaac is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.