ORLANDO, Fla.,None — A man was arrested at Orlando International Airport after trying to smuggle drugs inside a toy, federal agents said on Wednesday. Angel Grilo Gonzalez is accused of checking a suitcase that had cocaine inside of it.
Federal and local agents won't say exactly how they became suspicious, but an arrest affidavit said Gonzalez used a toy to conceal the drugs.
"I think he is very, very, bold, very bold criminal," said traveler Chris Robinson.
Travelers at OIA said they were happy to hear about the arrest, especially since the two-kilos of cocaine were moved through checked baggage on a flight from Puerto Rico that arrived on Monday night.
Inside the suitcase was a Toys-R-Us bag with a toy inside that had been disassembled and then put back together, agents said. The toy contained cocaine.
"Not surprised. I mean in this day and time with the economy the way it is, people will pretty much do anything," said Robinson.
Investigators said they waited for the suspect to pick up his suitcase and make his way to the exit doors before approaching him about the drugs.
The arrest affidavit said the Puerto Rican resident admitted to doing the crime for $2,000 cash. Gonzalez faces years in prison for drug trafficking.
Passengers at the airport said they do not like hearing about the drug trafficking, but are happy that the airport security measures worked.
"They're checking everything you know, so it's good they got him, good he didn't get away with it, good to know the system is working," said traveler Steven Bolds.
Investigators said the suspect purchased his ticket one day before his trip and claimed he only knew that someone named Frank was supposed to pick up the bag.