US man attempts to smuggle meth as candy to Japan
By Associated Press
Jul 30, 2012 9:31 PM CDT
This undated photo provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Monday, July 30, 2012 shows more than four pounds of methamphetamine disguised to look like the popular Snickers Bars. Rogelio Mauricio Harris of Long Beach, Calif,. was arrested last week at Los Angeles International Airport as...   (Associated Press)

A California man faces federal drug charges for allegedly trying to smuggle more than 4 pounds (1.8 kilograms) of methamphetamine to Japan in what looked like dozens of Snickers candy bars.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials said Monday that 34-year-old Rogelio Mauricio Harris of Long Beach was arrested last week at Los Angeles International Airport as he prepared to board a flight to Japan.

Harris was charged in Los Angeles with drug possession and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

Federal agents conducting routine baggage inspections found 45 full-sized Snickers bars inside Harris' luggage. Each bar was coated in a chocolate-like substance to make it look like a candy bar, but tests revealed the so-called candy contained methamphetamine.

Authorities estimate the 4 pounds of meth is worth about $250,000.