Border patrol officers announced Tuesday they arrested two adults caught trying to smuggle $141,252 in cold, hard cash from Texas to Mexico.
(FOX)- The couple, traveling with two children, was caught at the El Paso Ysleta port of entry Sunday. The money turned up in the woman’s purse and a child’s backpack.
It’s not illegal to bring money back and forth. However, travelers do have to properly report their currency when either leaving or entering the United States.
“There is absolutely no limit to the amount of currency a traveler can bring into or take out of the United States,” Customs and Border Protection El Paso Port Director Beverly Good explained in a statement. “The only requirement is travelers must report aggregate amounts that reach or exceed $10,000 to CBP. Failure to do so can result in criminal or civil penalties.”
The arrest unfolded Sunday morning after the couple tried to drive the car, with two children in the back, into Mexico through the port of entry. CBP officers selected the vehicle for a search.