posted on February 13, 2006 04:15:01 PM new
HOUSTON (AP) - Two U.S. air marshals face federal drug charges accusing them of using their positions to smuggle narcotics through airport security and onto planes for transport, federal prosecutors said.
Shawn Ray Nguyen, 38, and Burlie L. Sholar III, 32, both of Houston, were arrested Thursday after an informant delivered 33 pounds of cocaine and $15,000 in ``up front money'' to Nguyen's Houston home, authorities said.
``We expect and demand that our law enforcement officials will themselves abide by the laws that they are sworn to uphold,'' said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Don DeGabrielle.
According to a criminal complaint, authorities began investigating Nguyen in November after receiving a tip that he was involved in selling drugs.
Authorities said Nguyen recruited Sholar and the two planned to smuggle 33 pounds of cocaine aboard a plane bound for Las Vegas in exchange for $67,500.
Both men face 10 years to life in prison and a $4 million fine if convicted.
The exact number of air marshals is classified but thousands were rushed into service after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack
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Never ask what sort if computer a guy drives. If he's a Mac user, he'll tell you. If he's not, why embarrass him? - Tom Clancy
posted on February 13, 2006 04:55:59 PM new "The exact number of air marshals is classified but thousands were rushed into service after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack.
It's been reported that the Department of Homeland Security found some problems with background checks on air marshalls. Maybe these two drug smugglers slipped through the cracks.
posted on February 13, 2006 05:50:31 PM newBoth men face 10 years to life in prison and a $4 million fine if convicted.
Talk about getting off easy. If they were caught smuggling drugs in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand or Indonesia they would get an automatic death penalty, or life (if they were lucky/unlucky) without parole. Singapore, Malaysia, & Thailand still have regular hangings, but Indonesia opted for the more humane firing squad.
Oh, and be careful of appealing any life sentence as several drug smugglers who did, had their conviction changed to death by the presiding judges. Guess they will get out of jail sooner... in a coffin.
posted on February 13, 2006 07:20:45 PM new
Is the drug war worth it all? I know this is only about 2 people, but I'm sure there are many more in many different fields. Does the corrupt nature of this war outweigh the benefits the war has against drugs?
