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Ex-Customs Agent Accused Of Drug Smuggling Rearrested

A former U.S. customs agent is expected to plead guilty to drug smuggling charges Tuesday in federal court. He was caught trying to leave the country while out on bail, authorities said.

Johnny G. Acosta was rearrested two weeks ago while attempting to flee to Mexico, according to court documents. Acosta faces 34 felony charges for conspiracy to smuggle marijuana across the U.S.-Mexico border.

He was arrested in April and pleaded not guilty to all charges. He made bail, under the condition that he not travel outside Arizona without court permission.

A court hearing had earlier been scheduled where Acosta was expected to change his plea.

An FBI task force received information that Acosta was planning to flee and rearrested him at the border. His release was revoked and he is still scheduled to appear in court Tuesday.

Al Macias, former KJZZ news director, retired as KJZZ's news director in 2022. He rejoined the station as a features reporter in 2023 and also as a part-time editor in 2024.