ATF Cracks Down on Contraband Cigarettes

San Francisco, CA - John A. Torres, Special Agent In Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Dwight J. Sparlin, Special Agent In Charge, Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) and Monte Williams, Chief of Investigations, Board of Equalization, (BOE), announced today the service of multiple search warrants including two arrest warrants. The operation was as a result of a nine-month investigation into the illegal trafficking of contraband cigarettes in a multi-agency federal and state effort by ATF, BOE and IRS-CI, the United States Attorney's Office and assisted by U.S. Secret Service. In excess of 150 law enforcement personnel from federal, state and local agencies participated in the service of over eighteen warrants. San Jose Police as well as officers from 7 other local departments assisted state and federal investigators.

Two individuals were arrested: Luu Thien LE, 47, San Jose, CA and Thao Thi Nguyen, 48, San Jose, CA. The complaint alleges receiving, possessing, selling, distributing and purchasing contraband cigarettes. The complaint also alleges that LE was involved in money laundering and tax evasion. During the execution of the warrants, contraband cigarettes, counterfeit cigarette tax stamps, cash and other items related to the alleged illegal operation were seized.

A joint press conference will be held at 2:00 PM, July 11, 2001, at San Jose Federal Building, 280 S. First Street, San Jose, CA.