On March 23 and 26, 2015, two truck drivers, Ernest Vincent Curran and Serge Coupal, were sentenced at the Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu courthouse for smuggling tobacco. The sentences stem from two separate seizures of tobacco in 2012 by border services officers at the Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle crossing.
Here is a summary of each case:
- On March 23, 2015, Curran was sentenced to 90 days in prison and fined $7,000. An investigation by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) revealed that Curran reported to the Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle border crossing on May 22, 2012. He declared that he was importing a shipment of apples. In his truck trailer, CBSA officers found 8,129 kg of bulk tobacco concealed behind some crates of apples. He was charged with smuggling under the Customs Act and possessing unstamped tobacco products, in contravention of the Excise Act, 2001.
- On March 26, 2105, Coupal was also sentenced to 90 days in prison and fined $7,000. Coupal reported to the Saint-Bernard-de-Lacolle border crossing on October 16, 2012. He declared that he was transporting a shipment of wood pallets. When they inspected his truck trailer, CBSA officers found 7,750 kg of tobacco concealed behind the pallets. His company was accused of contraband under the Customs Act and Coupal was accused of possessing unstamped tobacco products, in contravention of the Excise Act, 2001.
Quick Facts
- According to the Customs Act, anyone who tries to mislead border services officers by failing to declare goods to evade duties and taxes may be charged with making a false declaration and smuggling.
- Anyone with information about suspicious imports or exports is asked to contact the CBSA Border Watch line toll free at 1-888-502-9060.
Quote
“Border services officers keep a close watch over commercial imports in order to expose smuggling schemes. Anyone who tries to circumvent the law is subject to prosecution in court.”
Benoît Chiquette, Regional Director General, CBSA, Quebec Region
Associated Links
Contact
Media Relations, Quebec Region
Canada Border Services Agency
Telephone: 514-350-6130
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