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FINDINGS OF FACT
Petitioner's Background
Petitioner has an extensive background in all aspects of
aviation. Petitioner has worked loading airplanes. He also has
a degree in aeronautic engineering and has served in the U.S. Air
Force. In addition, petitioner has all obtainable pilot's
licenses and aircraft mechanic's licenses, including commercial
pilot.
Since the late 1960's, petitioner has been engaged in the
buying, selling, trading, and leasing of aircraft. Between 1969
and 1976, petitioner engaged in these aircraft activities
primarily outside the United States. In addition to conducting
these activities, petitioner was also flying as a commercial
pilot. During this time, petitioner lived in various countries.
In approximately 1976, petitioner returned to the United
States to live and purchased a house at 19824 Bob O Link Drive in
Hialeah, Florida. Petitioner had a large floor safe installed in
his house, into which he placed the cash that he had accumulated
from his previous business dealings, along with the money that he
was generating from his current business dealings.
Also in approximately 1976, in addition to his legitimate
aircraft business transactions, petitioner began leasing aircraft
to "bandits". Bandits are persons engaged in the smuggling of
marijuana. Petitioner placed the money he earned from these
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