TAMPA, Fla. – Mirtza Ocana, a 39-year-old Tampa resident, has pleaded guilty to charges of bulk cash smuggling and conspiracy to commit bulk cash smuggling. The announcement was made today by United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg.
According to court documents, Ocana’s illegal activities came to light on February 5, 2024, when she returned to the United States on a flight from Cuba. During routine customs inspection, Ocana initially denied carrying any cash exceeding the allowable limit. However, a search of her luggage revealed more than $31,000 in undeclared currency.
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Confronted with the discovery, Ocana confessed to being involved in a recurring scheme to smuggle cash from Cuba into the United States. She admitted to making such trips two to three times per month since June 2023, earning between $1,000 and $2,500 for each successful smuggling operation.
A subsequent search of Ocana’s person uncovered an additional $71,300 concealed in her clothing. In total, authorities seized approximately $102,700 in undeclared cash from Ocana.
Ocana now faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison for her crimes. A sentencing date has not yet been determined.
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