Texas CBP Seizes Nearly 300 Pounds of Prohibited Pork Products from Repeat Offender

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialists at the Paso Del Norte international crossing in El Paso, Texas, intercepted a significant quantity of prohibited pork products on May 8, marking the second offense by the same individual. The seizure underscores ongoing efforts by federal agencies to prevent the entry of potentially harmful agricultural goods into the United States.

The incident occurred around 8 p.m. when a 61-year-old man driving a 2024 Mazda CX-50 approached the vehicle inspection lanes. After declaring no fruits, vegetables, or meat products, a CBP officer noticed suspicious items under the vehicle’s floor mats. A secondary inspection revealed 25 large rolls of pork bologna totaling 275 pounds, along with 17.6 pounds of pork ham and seven pounds of pork chorizo. All items were confiscated and destroyed in accordance with U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations.

This is not the first time the individual has attempted to smuggle pork products through the same port. In a previous incident, he was caught with 30 rolls of bologna and fined $1,000. The recurrence of the offense has prompted CBP to consider further civil penalties. The case has been referred to the USDA’s Investigative and Enforcement Services for review.

CBP officials warn that bringing undeclared meat products from other countries can pose a significant threat to the U.S. agriculture sector by potentially introducing foreign animal diseases. The USDA and Department of Homeland Security continue to work together at ports of entry to prevent such risks. Travelers are urged to declare any agricultural products they are carrying to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with federal regulations.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from a U.S. Customs and Border Protection press release

---