The driver was directed to open his trunk. Customs Inspectors discovered 1,250 Cuban cigars packaged in 50 wooden cases inside. A Customs Special Agent opted for an administrative penalty. U.S. Customs assessed a fine and seized the vehicle. The driver was released.
Federal law prohibits the importation of Cuban cigars.
The Department of Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control administers regulations that generally prohibit merchandise from embargoed countries, such as Cuba, Iraq, North Korea and Libya.