Annapolis, MD (January 10, 2008) - Agents for Comptroller Peter Franchot, in conjunction with agents of the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), yesterday made two arrests and confiscated over 13,000 packs of contraband cigarettes on Interstate 95 in Prince George's County.

"People who blatantly disregard the law will not be tolerated," said Comptroller Franchot. "My agents will continue to work closely with our partners in law enforcement to enforce Maryland's tobacco laws which protect law-abiding businesses and keep our communities free from this contraband."

Agents stopped a Virginia registered 2008 Dodge Caravan on North-bound Interstate 95 near Interstate 495 in Prince George's County. Vehicle operator Xiang Chen and Passenger Chaoyu Wu were found in possession of 13,150 packs of contraband cigarettes in total. The cigarettes, valued at $66,013.00 and representing an estimated tax loss of $26,300.00 to the State of Maryland, were seized as evidence and are subject to forfeiture.

Chen and Wu were arrested and face two Maryland charges: transporting contraband cigarettes, a felony that carries a $50 per carton fine and/or two years imprisonment; and, possession of contraband cigarettes, a misdemeanor carrying a $1000 fine and/or imprisonment not exceeding one year. They are currently being held in Prince George's County Detention Center. ATF has filed criminal charges and placed criminal detainers on both defendants. Once released by the State of Maryland, the defendants will be turned over to ATF.

So far in fiscal year 2008, Comptroller agents have charged 27 individuals with tobacco-related violations and seized a total of 28,282 packs of contraband cigarettes. These cigarettes are valued at $124,491.58 and represent a tax loss to the State of Maryland of $31,406.00.

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Contact: Caron Brace, (410) 260-7438 (office), (410) 212-9414 (cell)