If you or someone you know recently had cash seized at Detroit Metro Airport, you’re not alone. On September 4, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized $20,000 in U.S. currency from a traveler at the Port of Detroit Airport, citing violations of federal currency reporting laws.
Just weeks earlier, on August 21, CBP reported another seizure: more than $18,000 in misreported currency from a traveler bound for Jordan. Despite multiple chances to correct his declaration, the traveler claimed only $10,000—triggering a full seizure by CBP officers. A picture of the seized cash was posted on X:
🧾 Recent Cash Seizures at Detroit Metro Airport
These incidents are part of a consistent pattern of cash seizures at Detroit Metro Airport, where CBP officers are actively enforcing federal currency reporting laws. In recent months, CBP has publicized multiple cases involving travelers who either misreported or failed to declare large sums of cash. These examples show how even small mistakes—or attempts to “stay under the limit”—can result in serious legal consequences and the loss of thousands of dollars. Below is a summary of recent seizures that demonstrate the scope and frequency of enforcement at this international port.
- More than $17K was seized from a China-bound traveler at Detroit Metro Airport, July 7. The traveler indicated she was trying to “stay below the $10,000 limit per person” and intentionally misreported the amount of cash in her possession.
- CBP officers seized more than $50K in undeclared/misreported currency between four separate encounters, June 20-22.
- CBP officers seized $65,910 in intentionally misreported cash from an outbound traveler, June 2.
- More than $51,000 in intentionally misreported cash was seized by Detroit Metro Airport CBP officers, May 29.
- More than $16,000 in intentionally misreported currency was seized by CBP officers at Detroit Metro Airport, May 5.
- CBP officers seized nearly $13K in currency, May 2. While the outbound traveler declared $6,000, additional cash was discovered during a baggage inspection—some wrapped in tissue paper and more hidden within used medication packaging.
- Two separate encounters yielded more than $30K total in seized at Detroit Metro Airport, April 25.
- More than $25K was seized from a passenger arriving from Ukraine at Detroit Metro Airport, April 19. The traveler initially declared only $10K.
- Detroit Metro Airport CBP officers seized $40,082 in intentionally misreported cash from an inbound traveler, April 15. He claimed only $20K despite multiple opportunities to amend his declaration.
- Two separate encounters yielded more than $60K total in intentionally misreported cash at Detroit Metro Airport, March 25.
🚨 Why Was the Cash Seized?
CBP officers at Detroit Metro Airport typically cite one or more of the following federal violations when seizing cash from travelers:
- Failure to Report – 31 U.S.C. § 5316(a)(1)(A) — Travelers entering or leaving the United States with more than $10,000 in currency are required to file a FinCEN Form 105. Failing to report this amount—even unintentionally—violates the Bank Secrecy Act and can result in immediate seizure of the funds.
- Structuring – 31 U.S.C. § 5324 — Some travelers attempt to avoid reporting requirements by dividing cash among multiple people or trips to stay under the $10,000 threshold. This practice, known as structuring, is illegal—even if the traveler believes they are complying with the law. Intentional structuring is treated as a serious offense and often leads to forfeiture.
- Bulk Cash Smuggling – 31 U.S.C. § 5332 — When currency is concealed in luggage, clothing, or other items to avoid detection or reporting, CBP may classify the incident as bulk cash smuggling. This is a felony offense and can result in criminal charges, in addition to forfeiture of the cash.
These laws are part of the Bank Secrecy Act, which requires travelers to file a FinCEN Form 105 when carrying more than $10,000 in cash across U.S. borders. Failure to do so—even unintentionally—can result in immediate seizure.
✈️ Why Is Detroit Metro a Hotspot?
Detroit Metro Airport is a major international gateway, especially for travelers heading to Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. CBP officers are trained to detect unreported currency and often conduct secondary inspections based on travel patterns, behavior, or inconsistencies in declarations.
If your cash was seized at DTW, you may be wondering:
- Was this legal?
- Can I get my money back?
- What are my options?
🧾 What Happens Next?
Once CBP seizes your money, they issue a Notice of Seizure and Intent to Forfeit, which starts a strict timeline. You typically have 30 days to respond and choose one of the following:
- File a Petition for Remission or Mitigation – A request for CBP to return the money.
- File a Claim – To challenge the seizure in federal court.
- Do Nothing – Which results in automatic forfeiture.
Each option has pros and cons, and choosing the wrong one can cost you your money permanently. You should check out this 👉 What Option is Best to Get Seized Money Back from CBP?
📍 Local Help for Detroit-Area Seizures
If your cash was seized at Detroit Metro Airport, you need legal guidance tailored to your situation. The laws are complex, and CBP never returns money without a fight. A local attorney experienced in currency seizure defense can help you navigate the process and improve your chances of recovery.
Explore the Full Process of Currency Seizure & Recovery
To learn more about what happens after a seizure, how penalties are assessed, and how you can recover your funds, visit our comprehensive guide:
👉 A CBP Money Seizure Lawyer’s Guide to Recovering Seized Cash
Don’t navigate this process alone—get informed and take action.
⌛Take Back Control of Your Money Today
Don’t let a Customs money seizure derail your travel plans or financial stability. At Great Lakes Customs Law, we understand the stress and complexity of currency seizures. With years of experience on almost 700 cases, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights.
💵Act Now to Protect Your Cash
- Contact Us for a Free Consultation: Let’s discuss your case and explore your legal options. We’ll listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a tailored strategy to recover your seized money.
- Gather Your Documentation: Start collecting relevant documents—such as bank statements, tax returns, and travel records. We’ll evaluate this to determine the best way forward for you.
- Stay Informed and Prepared: We’ll keep you updated on your case and provide the tools and knowledge you need to make informed decisions.
🕛Don’t Delay – Every Moment Counts
If your cash has been seized by Customs, time is critical. Contact us immediately to take the first step toward resolving your case and reclaiming your money.
📞 Call us at (734) 855-4999
💬 Text or WhatsApp us for quick support
📝 Fill out our contact form to get started
🏆 Real Results That Speak for Themselves
Before you decide how to respond to a currency seizure, take a moment to explore our real-world case results. We’ve successfully handled nearly 700 cases, recovering millions of dollars for travelers, importers, and everyday people just like you. These outcomes aren’t just numbers—they’re proof that experience, strategy, and persistence matter.