MD Pair Had 57 Pounds Of Marijuana In Luggage At Dulles Airport: Police

DULLES, VA – Two Baltimore residents are facing felony narcotics charges after U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers intercepted 57 pounds of marijuana in their checked luggage at Washington Dulles International Airport on April 16.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police charged Carl Caran Raashad Henson, 31, and Tilesha Kelly Theresa Coles, 31, with possession of controlled substances, transporting more than 5 pounds of marijuana with intent to distribute, and conspiracy to commit drug offenses.

CBP officers discovered the substance inside 50 vacuum-sealed bags while inspecting baggage destined for a London-bound flight. The seized marijuana has an estimated street value of $220,000.

Following the discovery, the suspects were transferred to MWAA Police for prosecution.

"Transnational criminal organizations continue to carelessly profit on the misfortune of others by paying them peanuts to smuggle marijuana to Europe for higher profits," said Christine Waugh, area port director for the CBP Area Port of Washington, D.C. "Instead of peanuts, these mules will be earning jail time and a criminal record."

Waugh added, "These arrests should be a wake-up call to would-be smugglers that Customs and Border Protection officers will find you and we will work with our law enforcement partners to hold you accountable."

CBP officials reported an ongoing trend of criminal organizations attempting to transport marijuana through passenger baggage to Europe, where the substance can generate higher profits than in the United States.

Although some states have decriminalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use, federal law prohibits the possession of the substance and its export from the United States.

Criminal charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.