South Texas woman indicted for smuggling firearms, ammunition and cash into Mexico

LAREDO, Texas – A grand jury sitting in Laredo had returned an indictment charging an Austin woman for illegally smuggling defense articles and approximately $100K, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

On Jan. 18, 2021, authorities apprehended Lizzette Jaimes at the Lincoln Juarez Bridge port of entry in Laredo attempting to travel into Mexico, according to the charges. The indictment alleges she appeared nervous at primary inspection. Law enforcement referred her for a more thorough inspection, at which time they allegedly searched her luggage and other items in the rear seat of the truck.

The charges allege one of the items was a black duffle bag containing women’s clothing. Authorities allegedly felt a square object in the bottom of the bag, moved the clothing and found several stacks of U.S. currency wrapped in duct tape. It totaled $95,000, according to the allegations.

Law enforcement continued to search the truck and also allegedly found 240 rounds of handgun ammunition, an additional $4,747 in cash, three GPS devices wired in difference locations and nine handguns.  

If convicted, Jaimes faces up to 10 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Makens is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.