Woman from Deming, New Mexico charged with marijuana smuggling

            ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Nancy Edith Duarte-Lujan, 39, of Deming, New Mexico, appeared in federal court in Las Cruces, New Mexico today for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint charging her with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

            According to the criminal complaint, Duarte-Lujan allegedly tried to enter the United States on March 23 at the port of entry in Columbus, New Mexico with a large quantity of marijuana concealed in the spare tire, fenders, back seat and tailgate of the truck she was driving. U.S. Customs and Border Protection arrested Duarte-Lujan following an inspection of her vehicle.

            Duarte-Lujan is currently in custody pending a detention hearing on March 30.  She faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted of the charged offenses.  A criminal complaint is only an accusation.  A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

            Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection investigated this case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Bartlett is prosecuting the case.