US Border Agent Accused of Smuggling and Drug Dealing

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer named Manuel Perez Jr. has been arrested. He's in big trouble!

The government says Perez helped people cross the border illegally from Mexico into the U.S. He's also accused of working with a dangerous drug group called La Linea.

Investigators believe Perez got paid $2,500 for each person he helped smuggle. They think he could have made as much as $400,000 since December 2023. They also say he was involved with selling cocaine since November 2019.

Evidence includes witness testimonies, his frequent travel to Mexico. Moreover, they found $18000 in cash at a place he lived in Mexico. 

A judge said Perez couldn't go free on bail because he might try to run away. If he's found guilty, he could be sent to prison for 10 years or even for the rest of his life.