Canadian trucker found guilty after drug trial in U.S.

The Associated Press

4/17/2008

SEATTLE — A Canadian trucker has been convicted of conspiracy in a case involving the seizure of $1.2 million worth of marijuana.

A U.S. District Court jury in Seattle deliberated for about a day and a half following a one-week trial before convicting 26-year-old Corey Wirsz on Tuesday.

More than 350 pounds of pot was found hidden in the Chilliwack, British Columbia, man's 18-wheeler on Aug. 2 at the border crossing in Blaine, Wash.

Wirsz claimed the marijuana was hidden by a drug trafficking group without his knowledge. Government lawyers, however, successfully argued that the floor of the trailer was raised five inches to create a hidden compartment after Wirsz bought it for $13,000 in cash.

Wirsz faces 5 to 40 years in prison. He remains free pending sentencing on July 11.