U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized more than $500,000 at the Hidalgo Port of Entry on Wednesday, according to a federal criminal complaint.
At about 10:15 p.m., officers referred a black 2013 Nissan to secondary inspection. During a search of the Nissan, officers found 32 vacuum-sealed packages and 28 loose bundles of U.S. currency hidden behind the rear seat, totaling $532, 255.
During questioning with Homeland Security Investigations agents, the driver of the vehicle, identified as Jose Miguel Garcia Jr., said he would have been paid $1,000 after transporting the currency into Mexico.
Garcia was charged with intentionally concealing currency with the intent to transport outside the U.S.
Garcia’s attorney wasn’t immediately available for comment on Friday.
