CBP Seizes $184,095 at Texas Border: Insights on CBP Currency Seizure
Courtesy of U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
If you have recently undergone a CBP currency seizure, reach out to the experienced team at San Diego Defenders – Forfeiture Law Firm at (619) 258-8888 for a complimentary, confidential consultation.
On May 2, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers confiscated $184,095 in unreported U.S. cash from two Mexican nationals at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge in Texas.
As reported by CBP:
The seizure took place on May 2, when CBP officers working at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge encountered a 32-year-old male Mexican citizen driving a 2022 Fiat, and a 33-year-old female Mexican citizen as a passenger in the same vehicle who were selected for a routine outbound inspection. In secondary, CBP officers discovered packages containing bulk U.S. currency totaling $148,610 hidden within the vehicle. CBP officers also discovered $5,485 on the driver and $30,000 concealed on the body of the female passenger.
The vehicle, along with the seized cash, has been taken by authorities, and the case is under further investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
This event underscores the critical importance of adhering to federal requirements for declaring cash when traveling internationally.
Although carrying any sum of cash while traveling is not illegal, U.S. law (31 USC § 5316) mandates that travelers bringing more than $10,000 in currency or monetary instruments must declare the exact amount to CBP by filling out a FinCEN Form 105.
Failing to report this information, whether intentionally or due to misunderstanding, can lead to immediate seizure of the funds and potential criminal charges.
Many people find themselves caught in CBP currency seizures simply because they are unaware of or misinterpret the reporting obligations.
Some individuals might attempt to split large sums of money among multiple travelers or separate bags to avoid scrutiny. When this is done with the intent of avoiding the reporting requirements of over $10,000, it is considered “cash structuring” under 31 USC § 5324.
Others may conceal cash within vehicles or luggage, or hide it on their person, a practice known as “bulk cash smuggling” defined under 31 USC § 5332(a)(2).
Regardless of any of the travelers’ potential intentions, CBP treats these situations seriously and holds the authority to seize the cash and initiate forfeiture proceedings. Sometimes this is even done in the absence of criminal charges.
If you find yourself involved in a CBP currency seizure, it is crucial to act swiftly. The first step is to respond without delay to any Notice of Seizure letter, as there are strict deadlines for contesting forfeiture.
It is imperative to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in CBP currency seizures and federal asset forfeiture matters. Attorney Dan Smith at San Diego Defenders – Forfeiture Law Firm carries 35 years of federal defense experience and is prepared to assess your situation, assist in preparing necessary documents for the return of your property, and ensure compliance with all deadlines.
Contact San Diego Defenders – Forfeiture Law Firm at (619) 258-8888 for a free and confidential consultation.
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