Federal Importation of Methamphetamine into the United States: Dismissed

Client was charged in federal court with importation of a controlled substance under 21 U.S.C. §§ 952 and 960. The government alleged our client knowingly transported over 22 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden inside a spare tire. The charge carried a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence under 21 U.S.C. § 960(b)(1)(H). After a detailed investigation and expert-supported blind mule defense, the government dismissed the case before trial.

The case began with an arrest at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry, where CBP officers discovered 45 vacuum-sealed packages of methamphetamine concealed inside a spare tire. The government alleged our client knowingly participated in a trafficking scheme, exposing him to a decade in federal prison.

We immediately conducted a full-scope defense investigation. Our team traveled to Tijuana and gathered evidence to support a blind mule defense: a legal theory in which a person is unknowingly used to transport drugs across the border without their knowledge. Although frequently asserted, blind mule defenses are rarely successful in federal court.

To support the defense, we retained a top expert in vehicle concealment. The expert physically inspected the spare tire compartment and concluded that the concealment method was sophisticated and not reasonably detectable by someone without training or inside knowledgeGovt memo re spare tire.

The defense also documented our client’s lack of criminal history, lack of financial incentive, and consistent statements made during the investigation. We presented this full package to the government prior to trial.

The United States Attorney’s Office ultimately dismissed the case in full. No plea. No conviction.

This was a fully charged federal drug trafficking case with a ten-year mandatory minimum. Complete dismissals under these circumstances are extremely rare and reflect the strength of the defense work and preparation.