Photo Courtesy of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol
Approximately 4 pounds of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $70,000, was seized in the single bust.
By Forum Staff
A Jamaican woman has been charged with importation of a controlled substance after she allegedly was caught last week attempting to smuggle 4 pounds of cocaine through John F. Kennedy International Airport via a box of Tastee Brand Jamaican Beef Patties, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
According to CBP officials, on Jan. 17, officers “intercepted” passenger Chantal Alecia Bedward, a citizen of Jamaica who had just arrived in New York City on a flight from Kingston. During the examination, investigators discovered what appeared to be a box of beef patties.
Customs officers then escorted Bedward to a private search room where the case was opened, revealing 12 duct-taped packages containing a white powder that tested positive for cocaine, according to CBP officials.
The estimated street value of the seized narcotic is $70,000, authorities indicated.
“This seizure demonstrates the vigilance and dedication demonstrated daily by CBP officers at JFK, in keeping these prohibited and dangerous narcotics off the streets of our communities,” said Robert Perez, director, CBP Field Operations in New York.
Bedward was turned over to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations. Her case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District.
