Dallas-based flight attendant admits trying to smuggle fentanyl out of California

A Dallas-based flight attendant pleaded guilty to a drug-trafficking charge last week, admitting she taped three pounds of fentanyl to her body and tried bypassing security screenings while off duty in California in October, according to federal authorities.

Terese Lea White, 41, pleaded guilty to a charge of possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, according to the U.S. attorney’s office in California’s Southern District.

Authorities said White flew from Dallas to San Diego on Oct. 4. Later that day, after walking out of the airport’s secure area, she walked through the airport’s Known Crew Member line before another scheduled flight to Boston.

But authorities selected White for a regular screening, according to prosecutors. Transportation Security Administration officers found several packages of fentanyl — about three pounds in total — taped to her body. White admitted “she attempted to use her status as a flight attendant, a position of trust, to facilitate the offense.,” prosecutors said. Authorities did not say which airline employed White.

White is due to be sentenced March 24. She faces up to 20 years in prison.