Seized Cash

Re “Man Seeks Return of Cash,” May 27: If I am not mistaken, ignorance of the law is no excuse. Hosep Bajakajian willfully hid $357,144 in his luggage and then lied to federal officials about it. His defense? “Cultural differences.”

As an American, I am offended that this case is even going to the Supreme Court. I wish that all immigrants would understand one thing: This is America. Obey our laws and cultural demands, not those of wherever you came from.

DEREK WASHINGTON

Los Angeles

* Here’s a guy taking a suitcase full of legal hard-earned money back to his homeland to pay off a few debts and impress the home folks on the greatness and the opportunities in America. Stopped at the border in June 1994, he has over $10,000, is fined $5,000 and his savings of $357,144 confiscated by the Justice Department.

This is a prime example of why the public has a distrust, an aversion, nay, a hatred of government. Stop acting like the Gestapo and give the guy back his money.

GEORGE MARGO

Malibu