NBC5.com - Money - Federal Air Marshals Accused Of Smuggling Narcotics
Federal Air Marshals Accused Of Smuggling Narcotics
POSTED: 7:18 am CST February 14, 2006
HOUSTON -- Two U.S. air marshals from Houston face federal drug charges.
They're accused of using their positions to smuggle narcotics through airport security and onto planes for transport.
Authorities said Shawn Ray Nguyen, 38, and Burlie L. Sholar III, 32, were arrested Thursday after an informant delivered 33 pounds of cocaine and $15,000 in "up-front money" to Nguyen's home.
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.
According to the criminal complaint in the case, Nguyen smuggled two envelopes containing drug money and fraudulent government documents past airport security in late December.
Nguyen, who is divorced and has three children, then discussed with the informant smuggling large loads of cocaine and bringing in others to help, according to the complaint.
Nguyen and Sholar are charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine.
Both men face 10 years to life in prison and a $4 million fine if convicted.
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