SMOKY BUSINESS

Man pleads guilty of smuggling

08-17-2009 | AP

Panama Star Authorities in Miami say 57-year-old Roman Vidal pleaded guilty Friday to conspiring to commit wire and mail fraud. They say he was trying to avoid paying more than $6.5 million in customs and tax duties. They say he arranged to buy cases of cigarettes from Panama along with other cargo such as yarn and wood flooring to cover them up. Authorities say he directed the preparation of documents that declared only the cover materials, not the cigarettes.

Sentencing is set for Nov. 10.

Vidal's attorney didn't immediately return a telephone message and an e-mail.

Cigarettes in countries such as the United Kingdom could cost as much as $8 per packet and smokers are always looking for bargains.