Ruben Montes, a resident of Calexico, California, has admitted guilt in a federal court for his role in smuggling and distributing over $3 million worth of pesticides and veterinary drugs from Mexico that are not approved for use in the United States. Montes acknowledged orchestrating the smuggling operation since at least November 2020.
The substances involved include Taktic and Bovitraz pesticides, which contain amitraz—a chemical toxic to bees and humans when misused. These pesticides are not registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The veterinary drugs smuggled were Tylocet, Terramicina, Tetragent Ares, and Catarrol, all unapproved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Montes admitted to hiding these substances in storage units in Calexico before distributing them across the country. Experts warn that misuse of amitraz can lead to neurological effects in humans through contaminated honey consumption.
U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath stated, “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.” Benjamin Carr from EPA’s criminal enforcement program added that Montes's actions endangered consumer health and honeybee populations crucial for food production.
Shawn Gibson from Homeland Security Investigations noted that this plea results from a long-term investigation coordinated with the EPA into an organization smuggling Mexican pesticides into the U.S. Charles Grinstead from FDA emphasized their commitment to pursuing those evading animal drug regulations.
Montes is scheduled for sentencing on April 2, 2025, before U.S. District Judge John A. Houston. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabet Brown and Senior Trial Attorney Stephen Da Ponte.
The charges against Montes fall under Title 18, U.S.C. Section 371—Conspiracy—with a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.
The investigation was conducted by several agencies including Homeland Security Investigations, EPA’s Criminal Investigations Division, FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations, and California Department of Toxic Substances Control.