Former Customs Officer Sentenced for Bribery

Leonard Darnell George, a former U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer, was sentenced to 23 years in prison for accepting bribes to allow vehicles carrying illegal drugs and undocumented migrants to pass through the San Ysidro Port of Entry. Over a six-month period, George facilitated 19 crossings, earning significant sums, including $68,000 for one instance involving four vehicles. His criminal activities were uncovered after a vehicle carrying 222 pounds of methamphetamine was flagged for secondary inspection. Evidence presented in court included text messages detailing his coordination with traffickers and the purchase of luxury items, like a Cadillac CT5, with his illicit earnings. U.S. officials emphasized that his actions undermined public trust in law enforcement, while George's defense argued for a lesser sentence, citing his military background. The case highlights ongoing issues of corruption within border enforcement agencies.