Calexico man sentenced for conspiring to smuggling unapproved pesticides

SAN DIEGO (KYMA, KECY) - A Calexico man has been sentenced to over a year in prison for conspiring to smuggle over $3 million worth of unapproved pesticides and veterinary drugs into the U.S.

60-year-old Ruben Montes was also ordered to pay more than $12,000 in forfeiture after coordinating the illegal import of harmful chemicals not approved by the EPA and FDA.

These smuggled substances, including toxic pesticides, posed serious risks to both human and the environment.

"Bringing in and selling pesticides and veterinary drugs illegally puts both people and the environment at risk," said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon for the Southern District of California. "These unregulated products can be harmful to animals, insects, and humans. Our office is committed to holding accountable anyone who chooses profit over public safety."

"A secure border is vital to ensuring the health and safety of Americans," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). "The Justice Department is committed to prosecuting those who violate our environmental and customs laws and jeopardize the health and safety of our citizens."

To learn more about Montes' sentencing, read the press release below.