A Calexico man has pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiring to smuggle and distribute pesticides and veterinary drugs into the U. S.

Ruben Montes, 60, acknowledged that since at least November of 2020, he coordinated the smuggling of pesticides and veterinary drugs that are not approved for use in the United States. Montes admitted to smuggling the items himself and distributing them within the U.S.  According to the U. S.Attorney's office, the primary pesticides were Taktic and Bovitraz. The smuggled veterinary drugs included Tylocet, Terramicina, Tetagent Ares and Catarrol. None of the items are approved for use in the U.S.  Montes said that he and others hid the materials in storage units in Calexico for distrution throughout the states. U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath said, " These substances not only threaten the health and safety of our communities but also undermine the integrity of U. S. regulatory safeguards designed to protect consumers and the environment". Montes is scheduled to be sentenced on April 2, 2025.