A traveler bound for France was instead taken into custody inside the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport when his checked bag was found to be filled with marijuana, airport officials say.
Kash Berthelot, a 41-year-old from California, was at his departure gate when he was escorted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents to an inspection station, according to a Feb. 9 news release from U.S. CPB.
Vacuum-sealed bags held ‘green leafy substance’
Berthelot was traveling with two suitcases, and when they were opened in inspection, vacuum-sealed bags were found inside.
Officials said the bags contained a “green leafy substance that field-tested positive for marijuana.”
The total weight of the marijuana was 19 kilograms, or about 42 pounds.
Berthelot was arrested by the Atlanta Police Department on marijuana trafficking charges and will be subject to state prosecution.
Europe rising as smuggling destination
“CBP officers nationwide continue to observe a trend of transnational criminal organizations attempting to transport marijuana through passenger baggage and express delivery to Europe, where high-quality marijuana can generate significant profits,” officials said.
In the United States, though some states have legalized medical or recreational marijuana, it remains illegal to possess or use under federal law. The law also prohibits transporting marijuana across state lines or exporting it outside the United States.
What is the marijuana law in Georgia?
The possession and use of marijuana in Georgia is illegal, even for medicinal purposes.
However, certain qualified people can possess up to 20 fluid ounces of “low THC oil,” derived from the marijuana plant. Possession is authorized by the Georgia Department of Public Health, and those who qualify are issued a “Georgia Low THC Oil Registry Card,” according to the department.
Georgia law does not authorize the sale or possession of marijuana in leaf for or infused in food products. Physicians are unable to prescribe marijuana for medical use.
Irene Wright is the Atlanta Connect reporter with USA Today’s Deep South Connect team. Find her on X @IreneEWright or email her at ismith@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Man arrested while smuggling 42 pounds of marijuana from Atlanta
