According to federal prosecutors, a man attempted to smuggle almost $200,000 into the United States at Newark Liberty International Airport.
Anthony Warner, a pilot from Dallas, arrived in Newark as passenger on a flight from India on January 10th. Airport security discovered $196,000 in undeclared cash wrapped in newspaper along with four pairs of earrings, ten rings, and other jewelry. He was arrested and charged with making false statements and bulk cash smuggling shortly after his arrival.
Warner has been assigned a federal public defender and has been released on $100,000 bail.
Potential Penalties
According to United States century code, making false statements is defined as knowingly or willfully falsifying, concealing, or covering up by any trick, scheme, or device a material fact. A federal making false statements charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $200,000 fine.
Cash smuggling occurs when one knowingly evades a currency reporting requirement by smuggling more than $10,000 in undeclared cash into the United States from another country or out of the United States to a another country. Cash smuggling carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and forfeiture of the undeclared cash, which in this case, is valued at around $200,000.
Warner could face up to 5 years in prison and fines and forfeitures totaling over $400,000 if convicted.
What to Do
Federal charges can wreak havoc quickly. In addition to bulky fines and penalties, Warner will be at risk of losing his pilot license and/or his job and his means of earning income. If he has a family, a conviction could significantly impact them socially, emotionally, and economically. If found guilty, Warner will most likely struggle to obtain employment in the future. Felony convictions can result in losing the right to own a firearm, the right to vote, the ability to apply for federal education funding, the ability to foster parent or adopt a child, or the right to rent a home or apartment.
Being arrested is a stressful experience, but staying calm is vital in order to protect yourself and exercise your rights. If you’ve been accused of committing a federal crime, don’t speak to authorities without the presence of a qualified, experienced criminal defense attorney. Those charged with crimes often unknowingly incriminate themselves during interviews with officers without an attorney present. Because state and federal law vary significantly, ensure you choose an attorney who has experience in federal law as well. Once you’ve secured an attorney, next steps can be planned and work can begin to lessen or eliminate your penalties if possible.