Colorado Woman Accused Of Smuggling Pot Into New Mexico

COLUMBUS, N.M. (AP) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in New Mexico say they've made an unusual seizure —bundles of marijuana stashed inside wood-framed and mirrored quinceanera plaques.

An 18-year-old Colorado woman has been arrested in the case.

A pickup truck entered the Columbus port from neighboring Palomas, Mexico, about noon Sunday and the vehicle was selected for a secondary exam.

Officers found numerous boxes filled with quinceanera decorations and noticed an anomaly in several of the plaques.

CBP officers dismantled the plaques and recovered 104 pounds of marijuana wrapped in 100 thin, rectangular wrapped packages.

Authorities say Tahlia Arana Perea, of Denver, was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. It was unclear Monday whether Perea has legal representation yet.

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