A former Missouri high school valedictorian, Braiden John Wilson, 27, was arrested for allegedly smuggling a significant quantity of the party drug butyl nitrate, commonly known as 'poppers,' into Argentina. He was apprehended by customs officers at Ezeiza airport in Buenos Aires on September 13, 2024, with approximately half a gallon of the substance in his suitcase. This incident is reported to potentially be the largest seizure of poppers by Argentine customs in recent years.
Wilson was found with 55 vials of butyl nitrate, which is illegal in Argentina and classified as a hazardous inhalant in the United States. The vials were labeled with brand names such as 'Rush,' 'Gold Rush,' and 'Jungle Juice.' According to court documents, Wilson stated, 'I like to use them socially,' and claimed he had no intention of selling or smuggling the drugs. He explained that the vials were not hidden because they evaporate quickly upon opening.
In addition to the vials, Wilson was carrying five iPhones and $1,201 in cash, which were seized by officials. He indicated that he traveled to Argentina for a friend's birthday. Official sources confirmed that this seizure is notably larger than most of the 76 popper seizures recorded in the past two years, which typically involved one to five vials.
Wilson faced charges of attempted smuggling of drug contraband, which could have resulted in a three-year suspended prison sentence. However, he reached a probation agreement that required him to donate $1,200 to a public children's hospital in Buenos Aires and pay $300 in reparations. He was later ordered to appear in court after only paying $400 of the required donation. On August 28, a new agreement was reached allowing him to use the seized cash, citing financial hardship.
Butyl nitrate is known for its fast-acting effects, which include mild euphoria and muscle relaxation, but it poses risks for individuals with certain health conditions. Wilson has a history of legal issues, having previously been charged with theft in 2017 after admitting to stealing over $2,000 from his employer, JCPenney. He pleaded guilty to misdemeanor theft and received a suspended jail sentence along with probation.
The New York Post reached out to Wilson for comment but did not receive a response.