When a California man’s suitcase containing garments saturated in meth was seized at LAX, his idyllic holiday took a tragic turn.#LosAngeles, California, #News, #Crime
Los Angeles, CaliforniaHere’s a pro travel tip: don’t carry meth-stained clothing on flights. Authorities said this week that Californiaman was arrested on November 6 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) when they found his suitcase contained garments smeared with methamphetamine.
When his checked bags raised suspicion during a regular security check, Raj Matharu, 31, of Northridge, was unable to board an aircraft to Sydney, Australia.
Discovery of Methamphetamine-Laced Clothing
After arriving at LAX, Matharu checked two baggage for his flight to Australia: a gray and a pink one. Officers from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) scanned the bags, and the X-ray pictures showed odd patterns inside them. Federal prosecutors claim that upon closer examination, they found over a dozen pieces of clothing, including a cow pajama onesie, all dried hard and covered with a white residue.
Field testing verified that the residue was methamphetamine. Law enforcement was able to separate over two pounds of the drug from the apparel, which weighed approximately 71.5 pounds in total.
Alleged Drug Trafficking and Arrest
Matharu is charged with major narcotics trafficking offenses. He was charged with possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it, which is a federal felony. Officers stopped him on the jet bridge and made the arrest just before he was ready to board his aircraft. After being taken into custody, Matharu is now free after posting a $10,000 bond.
Matharu could be sentenced to at least 10 years in jail and possibly life in prison if found guilty. His arraignment is set for December 2.
Legal Consequences and Upcoming Court Dates
Matharu’s legal future is now in jeopardy as the probe goes on. He might be subject to harsh punishment under federal law if found guilty of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. As he awaits his court appearance next week, the 31-year-old is still free on bond.
Matharu faces a significant prison sentence if found guilty. The maximum penalty for the federal crime is life in prison, with a minimum of ten years. This case serves as a reminder of the continuous fight against drug trafficking, particularly when it comes to the smuggling of illicit drugs via popular routes.
CONNECTED TOPICS: California Crime
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