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Alert TSOs’ Discovery Leads to Major Drug Bust in San Antonio

News & Happenings

October 10, 2007

Photo of Ron Hidalgo

More than $100,000 worth of black tar heroin found in a checked bag by San Antonio TSOs Michael Hudson and Ron Hidalgo helped lead to the arrest of a suspected drug smuggler in September 2007.

After an X-ray identified a threat, Hudson called for a bag check. Discovered in the bag was something TSOs do not often see: a tightly wrapped package layered with axle grease and pickle juice intended to disguise nearly one kilogram of black tar heroin.

Airport surveillance revealed that the passenger was observing his luggage from a safe distance and fled when he realized his bag had been stopped.

With assistance from airport police, federal authorities tracked down the suspect more than 200 miles away and arrested him on charges of possession with intent to distribute.

"Great catch by our TSOs and another great example of how agencies working together result in successfully protecting our homeland," said Robert Rowe, assistant federal security director for law enforcement.