A federal jury has found Jaskaran Singh, a 31-year-old from Gujarat, India, guilty of possession with intent to distribute over 170 pounds of MDMA in Eastern Washington. The trial was overseen by United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice and began on March 17, 2025. Singh could face up to twenty years in prison at his sentencing on June 25, 2025, and may also be subject to removal from the United States.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that on April 29, 2023, three individuals were captured by motion sensor cameras crossing into the U.S. from Canada near Danville, Washington. They were seen carrying backpacks and a suitcase. Shortly after, Singh was stopped by Border Patrol while driving a rented Honda Odyssey away from the border area.
Border Patrol agents observed that the vehicle contained backpacks and a suitcase matching those seen on camera with the individuals who crossed the border illegally. Upon searching the van, agents seized approximately 173.7 pounds of MDMA inside these bags. A map of the area and messages related to drug transportation were found on Singh’s phone.
Testimonies confirmed that Singh had traveled from Northern California to Washington State just before the seizure took place. He rented a car in Seattle before heading to where the drugs were smuggled across the border.
Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker stated: “Mr. Singh trafficked more than 170 pounds of illegal drugs across our northern border into the United States.” He emphasized that this significant seizure had a street value exceeding $7.8 million and highlighted efforts to hold those accountable who exploit national borders for drug trafficking.
David F. Reames of DEA Seattle Field Division expressed satisfaction with their collaboration with U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Attorney’s Office in holding international drug traffickers accountable for their crimes.
Jason Liebe of Spokane Sector for U.S. Border Patrol noted their commitment to safeguarding borders against smuggling activities: “This conviction highlights...the Spokane Border Patrol Sector’s unwavering commitment to protecting communities from illicit drugs.”
The investigation involved multiple agencies including U.S. Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alison L. Gregoire and Dan Fruchter.