Canadian border officials have announced the conviction of two brothers, James and Jason McDuffie, for their involvement in a significant tobacco smuggling operation. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), based in Niagara Falls, reported that the brothers attempted to transport large quantities of contraband tobacco into Canada, totaling an alarming 45,620 kilograms.
The CBSA's enforcement efforts took place at the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, where officers seized the smuggled tobacco on three distinct occasions between 2021 and 2022. This illicit operation not only broke the law but also sought to evade approximately $17.5 million in duties and taxes that were owed to Canadian authorities.
In a recent court ruling, 53-year-old James McDuffie faced justice for his actions, pleading guilty to making false statements under the Customs Act on June 17. As a result of his conviction, he has been sentenced to nine months of house arrest, followed by a two-year probation period.
Similarly, his brother, 53-year-old Jason McDuffie, pled guilty on May 21 to multiple charges, including two counts of smuggling under the Customs Act and two counts of possession of unstamped tobacco under the Excise Act. For his offenses, Jason received a conditional sentence of two years of house arrest, along with a year of probation and was mandated to complete 200 hours of community service.
Michael Prosia, the Regional Director General for the Southern Ontario Region at CBSA, commented on the successful outcomes of the investigations. He emphasized the agency's ongoing commitment to disrupting organized crime by intercepting contraband goods entering Canada. By seizing these smuggled items, the CBSA aims to prevent the proceeds from being funneled back into further criminal activities.
Prosia also praised the diligent work of the criminal investigators and border services officers, noting that the sentencing of the McDuffie brothers stands as a testament to their efforts in maintaining border security and upholding the law.
