Illicit Finance

Bulk cash transport is the most common method used to move drug proceeds in the Northwest HIDTA region, particularly by Mexican and Asian DTOs. Mexican DTOs bulk-transport most of the illicit drug proceeds that they generate to Mexico, while Asian DTOs bulk-transport most proceeds to Canada. DTOs, criminal groups, and gangs launder illicit proceeds through real estate investments, cash-intensive front businesses, and money services businesses. Retail-level traffickers also purchase high-value items such as clothing, jewelry, and automobiles. Additionally, traffickers operating in the region sometimes exploit casinos located in Indian country to mask the identity of their illicit proceeds.

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