The 25-year-old Australian woman faces multiple felony charges after authorities say she tried to get home with £44 methamphetamine paid to carry from an acquaintance in Los Angeles.
Last week, Yasmin Vantongellen was arrested on suspicion of intent to sell at San Francisco International Airport, according to court documents.
San Mateo County prosecutors say Vantonguelen stayed at Los Angeles Airbnb in Koreatown. There he met an acquaintance from years ago who offered to pay for her trip in exchange for Bantongelen, who flew a suitcase and returned to Brisbane.
Vantongeren is said to have been promised up to $15,000 to complete the delivery. This included 20 sealed bags and 40 vacuum-adhesive bags. Her bag was randomly searched on SFO by a transport security management agent as Vanthonggelen tried to board the flight.
“She’s unlucky,” said the San Mateo area. Atty. Steve Wagstaff told SF Gate. “They don’t screen all the baggage. It’s random. It wasn’t a victory for her.”
San Mateo County told SF Gate that it is investigating whether Vantongeren is part of a larger smuggling operation after Vantongeren found a Western Union receipt in her name.
Vantongeren pleaded not guilty last week and returned to court in interim next week for a preliminary hearing. She has faced several years in prison if she is found guilty on all charges.
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