Arrested for Marijuana, Cannabis, THC Vapes or Edibles in Mexico?
If you or a loved one has been arrested in
Tijuana, Mexicali, or anywhere in Mexico for cannabis, marijuana, THC vape cartridges, gummies, edibles, concentrates, or related products, you may be facing a
serious federal offense classified as
introducción de narcóticos.Under Mexican federal law, bringing marijuana or cannabis products into the country—especially through a port of entry—can be prosecuted as a federal crime carrying penalties of
10 to 25 years in prison.These cases are prosecuted under the Federal Penal Code, and the General Health Law of Mexico. In many situations, the offense is categorized among crimes that may restrict pretrial release by the National Code of Criminal Procedure, meaning you could remain detained while your case proceeds.
Border Arrests: “It Was Just for Personal Use” Is Not a Defense by Itself
Many travelers entering from the United States are detained for:
- Marijuana flower
- THC vape pens and cartridges
- Cannabis gummies and edibles
- Oils and concentrates
- Multiple products interpreted as distribution
Even small amounts can be treated as
federal introduction of narcotics, not simple possession, if authorities allege the product crossed into Mexican territory.Without proper legal strategy and documentation, prosecutors may pursue the full federal charge. That can result in
months or years in custody, and if convicted, a potential sentence between 10 and 25 years.
How the Right Defense Strategy Can Change the Outcome
Hiring the right federal criminal defense attorney can make a critical difference.In certain cases, it may be possible to:
- Challenge the legal classification of the substance
- Prove the amount was strictly for personal use
- Attack unlawful search or inspection procedures
- Question laboratory testing and chain of custody
- Demonstrate lack of intent to introduce narcotics
- Negotiate reduction to simple possession
- Seek dismissal due to procedural violations
Early intervention is essential. The first hours and days after arrest often determine whether a person remains detained or can pursue release strategies.
Specialized Cannabis Defense at Ports of Entry
We focus on marijuana and cannabis-related arrests at:
- San Ysidro and Otay border crossings
- Tijuana International Airport
- Mexicali border crossings
- Los Algodones port of entry
- Other federal inspection zones in Mexico
Border and airport cases require immediate federal defense strategy because authorities presume “introduction” when controlled substances enter the country.
About Fabian Meneses – Criminal Defense Attorney
My name is
Fabian Meneses, Criminal Defense Attorney and Founder of Meneses Legal.I am included on the list of verified attorneys by the United States Consulate General Tijuana and we specialize in assisting foreign nationals arrested in Mexico to obtain their freedom as quickly as legally possible.Our firm has extensive experience defending U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals facing federal marijuana, cannabis, and narcotics charges in:
- Tijuana
- Mexicali
- Los Algodones
- Throughout Mexico
We understand the urgency families feel when someone is detained in a foreign country. Our priority is protecting your rights, building an aggressive defense strategy, and pursuing every legal avenue to secure release.
Immediate Legal Help for Marijuana Arrests in Mexico
If you or a loved one has been arrested for marijuana, cannabis, THC vapes, or edibles in Tijuana, Mexicali, Los Algodones, or anywhere in Mexico, contact us immediately for a confidential case evaluation.
USA Phone: 619-777-8627
Mexico Phone: 664-500-6896When facing a potential 10–25 year federal sentence, the attorney you hire matters. Early action can make the difference between federal prison exposure and a reduced or dismissed charge.
