2024-01-19 08:39:02
Kareshma Kaur Jagroop, an Indian-origin commercial truck driver, recently pleaded guilty to cocaine smuggling after nearly 66 pounds (30 kg) of the drugs were discovered hidden in watermelons during a routine inspection at the Montana-Canada border.
Jagroop, a 42-year-old resident of Ontario, Canada, entered a guilty plea at the US District Court in Great Falls, Montana. The charges include possession with intent to distribute cocaine, carrying a potential maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $1-million fine, and at least three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, the incident took place in July 2021, near the Sweetgrass Port of Entry in Toole County. Customs and Border Protection officers attempted to stop Jagroop’s northbound commercial truck on Interstate 15, suspecting potential irregularities.
Ignoring the signal, Jagroop continued past the outbound booth, prompting officers to pursue and eventually inspect the vehicle, as reported by the Ravalli Republic news portal.
A screening machine revealed anomalies in the trailer, leading officers to conduct a manual search. Upon unloading two pallets of watermelons with a forklift, they uncovered a plastic bag containing around 66 pounds (30 kg) of cocaine.
Jagroop disclosed to officers that she had entered the United States about a week before the incident, delivering produce to supermarkets in Oregon and California. She admitted to transporting the cocaine on behalf of a Canadian group.
US Attorney Jesse Laslovich highlighted the severity of the charges, emphasising the potential consequences for Jagroop.
“The plea represents a significant step in holding individuals accountable for their involvement in drug trafficking,” said Laslovich, reported by the news portal Ravalli Republic.
Chief US District Judge Brian M Morris has scheduled sentencing for May 23. Meanwhile, Jagroop has been released on conditions to a treatment centre in Montana as the legal proceedings continue.
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