California Man Caught with Suitcases Full of Meth-Laced Clothing at LAX!
A California man’s dream vacation took a dark turn when his luggage—stuffed with meth-soaked clothes—was intercepted at LAX. 🌐 #News #LosAngelesCA #California #Crime
LOS ANGELES, CA – Here’s a pro travel tip: when flying, avoid bringing clothes caked in meth. A California man was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on November 6 after authorities discovered his luggage was packed with clothing “caked in methamphetamine,” authorities announced this week.
Raj Matharu, 31, of Northridge, was attempting to board a flight to Sydney, Australia, but his plans were derailed when his checked bags raised suspicion during a routine security check.
Discovery of Methamphetamine-Laced Clothing
Matharu arrived at LAX, where he checked two suitcases, one pink and one gray, for his flight to Australia. When the suitcases were scanned by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers, the X-ray images revealed unusual patterns within the bags. A closer inspection uncovered more than a dozen clothing items, including a cow pajama onesie, all “dried stiff and covered in a white residue,” according to federal prosecutors.
The residue was field-tested and confirmed to be methamphetamine. In total, the clothing weighed around 71.5 pounds, and law enforcement was able to extract more than two pounds of the drug from the garments.
Alleged Drug Trafficking and Arrest
Matharu faces serious charges related to drug trafficking. He was indicted on a charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, a federal offense. The arrest took place just before he was about to board his flight, as officers intercepted him on the jet bridge. Matharu was arrested and is currently free on a $10,000 bond.
If convicted, Matharu could face a minimum of 10 years in prison, with the possibility of a life sentence. He is scheduled for arraignment on December 2.
Legal Consequences and Upcoming Court Dates
As the investigation continues, Matharu’s legal future now hangs in the balance. With the charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, he could face severe penalties under federal law. The 31-year-old remains out on bond as he awaits his court date next week.
Should Matharu be convicted, he faces a lengthy prison sentence. The federal charge carries a minimum sentence of 10 years, with the maximum penalty being life in prison. This case highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking, especially with the use of common travel routes to smuggle illegal substances.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | California
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