LAX Drug Bust: Northridge Man Allegedly Smuggled Meth-Caked Clothes
On November 26, 2024, Raj Matharu, a 31-year-old resident of Northridge, California, was indicted on charges of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Federal prosecutors allege that Matharu attempted to smuggle drugs disguised as residue on clothing items, including a cow-print pajama onesie, while preparing to board a flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Sydney, Australia.
According to court documents, the incident occurred on November 6, 2024, when Matharu checked two pieces of luggage—a pink suitcase and a gray suitcase—at the LAX ticket counter. During routine screening, airport security detected irregularities in the suitcases through X-ray imaging. Officers conducted a secondary inspection, revealing more than a dozen clothing items that appeared stiff and were coated in a white residue. Field tests of the residue confirmed the presence of methamphetamine. The total weight of the meth-caked clothing was approximately 32.4 kilograms (71.5 pounds). After chemical extraction, authorities recovered over one kilogram of methamphetamine residue from the garments.
Law enforcement officers intercepted him at the jet bridge as he was about to board his flight and arrested him on the scene.
Understanding Federal Charges for Methamphetamine Trafficking
Matharu has been charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, a violation of 21 U.S. Code § 841(a)(1) under federal law. This statute makes it unlawful for any person to manufacture, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act, due to its high potential for abuse and severe psychological or physical dependence.
Proving Methamphetamine Trafficking Under Federal Law
To convict someone of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, the prosecution must establish several key elements beyond a reasonable doubt. First, they must prove possession, meaning Matharu had either physical or constructive possession of the methamphetamine. In this case, the clothing coated with methamphetamine residue found in the suitcases serves as the alleged evidence of possession. Second, the prosecution must demonstrate knowledge, showing that he was aware that the substance in question was a controlled substance. Evidence such as his behavior at the airport, any statements he made, or other circumstantial details could be used to support this element. Finally, the prosecution must prove intent to distribute, which requires showing that he intended to deliver or distribute the methamphetamine. The volume of methamphetamine residue extracted—over one kilogram—is a critical factor, as quantities of this size typically exceed what would be considered for personal use and strongly suggest intent to distribute. Each of these elements must be backed by credible evidence to secure a conviction.
Federal Sentencing for Methamphetamine Trafficking: Mandatory Minimums
Under 21 U.S. Code § 841(b)(1)(A)(viii), the penalties for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine vary based on the quantity involved. In this case, federal law prescribes:
- A mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years if the quantity of methamphetamine exceeds 50 grams of pure substance or 500 grams of a mixture containing methamphetamine.
- A maximum sentence of life imprisonment, particularly for cases involving substantial quantities or aggravating circumstances, such as smuggling across international borders.
- Fines of up to $10 million for individuals.
Evidence in Connection to the Charge
The evidence in connection to the charge includes several key components. Physical evidence consists of the clothing items coated in methamphetamine residue, which weighed over 32 kilograms in total and contained more than 1 kilogram of extractable methamphetamine. This serves as strong material proof of possession. Additionally, forensic testing, including field tests and laboratory analyses, confirmed the presence of methamphetamine in the residue, bolstering the case against him.
Circumstantial evidence also plays a critical role, particularly the method of concealment. Hiding methamphetamine within clothing to avoid detection suggests both knowledge of the substance and intent to distribute it. Finally, statements or conduct by Matharu during his arrest or any suspicious behavior observed by authorities could be used to establish his awareness of the drugs and his intent to distribute them. Collectively, these pieces of evidence will likely form the foundation of the prosecution’s case.
While the charge is serious, Matharu’s defense may challenge several key elements of the case. One potential argument is lack of knowledge, where the defense could assert that he was unaware the clothing contained methamphetamine. This strategy would shift the burden on the prosecution to prove that Matharu knowingly possessed and intended to distribute the drug. Another defense could involve procedural errors, specifically challenging the legality of the search and seizure of the luggage. If law enforcement violated Fourth Amendment protections during the investigation, any evidence obtained unlawfully could be excluded. Finally, the defense might dispute the quantity and purity of the methamphetamine, questioning the accuracy of the weight calculations and forensic testing. This is particularly significant because the quantity directly affects sentencing guidelines, including the mandatory minimum sentence.
The investigation is being handled by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to combatting drug trafficking and its associated risks. Matharu, who was released on a $10,000 bond, is scheduled to be arraigned in the United States District Court in Los Angeles on December 2, 2024. Possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine is a serious federal offense with significant penalties. Defendants convicted under these charges may also face additional consequences, such as asset forfeiture, supervised release, and substantial fines. An indictment is a formal charge and does not imply guilt; Matharu is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
If you or someone you know is facing serious criminal allegations, contact The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi at 310-448-1529. With over 20 years of experience in criminal defense, we are dedicated to protecting our clients rights and providing effective representation.
