A New Jersey man has admitted in federal court to failing to stop for inspection at the Calais international port of entry in Maine. Jason Brenner, 52, entered his plea on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Bangor.
Court records show that on July 1, 2025, Brenner drove a vehicle from the United States into Canada. After interacting briefly with Canadian immigration officials, he turned around and headed back toward the U.S. border. Instead of stopping at the Calais port of entry for inspection as required, Brenner drove into the United States using the outbound lane against traffic and bypassed inspection procedures.
Authorities pursued Brenner after he failed to stop. During the chase, his vehicle reached speeds exceeding 100 mph before crashing. Law enforcement found him in nearby woods carrying a loaded firearm, two loaded magazines, and wearing body armor. Another loaded firearm was discovered inside his vehicle.
Brenner could face up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000 if convicted. He also faces up to one year of supervised release following any prison term imposed. Sentencing will occur after a presentence investigative report is completed by the U.S. Probation Office and reviewed by a federal magistrate judge who will consider applicable sentencing guidelines and statutory factors.
The investigation was led by U.S. Customs and Border Protection with support from U.S. Border Patrol as well as local police departments from Baileyville and Indian Township.
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