U.S. customs agents in North Texas have arrested a man they say tried to smuggle more than 2 pounds of heroin by ingesting small packets of the drug.
A federal complaint says Walter Lippmann-Avilez swallowed 70 packets with the intention of transporting them to New York. He flew into Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport from Mexico City on Saturday and was questioned about his travel plans.
Agents became suspicious when Lippmann-Avilez said he intended to purchase two vehicles and export them to Guatemala, despite having only $1,200 on him.
He later admitted to agents that he was to be paid $75 for each packet he delivered.
Lippmann-Avilez was taken to a hospital where the packets were recovered.
Todd Durden, his court-appointed attorney, declined to comment.