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  • Traffic stop leads to major drug bust
  • Driver attempts to flee on foot but was apprehended quickly
  • 52.4 pounds of marijuana seized by authorities

Encinal Police Department (EPD) arrested a 54-year-old man from Laredo, Texas on Thursday, August 31, 2023, for felony possession of marijuana.

Encinal PD Arrests Driver Smuggling Undocumented Subjects

The arrest occurred after an EPD sergeant conducted a traffic stop on IH35 near the 40 mile marker for multiple moving violations. The driver, who was identified as Jose Garcia, showed several indicators of nervousness and possible drug use during the field interview.

The sergeant then requested assistance from an EPD corporal/K-9 handler and K-9 Odin. After a positive K-9 alert on the vehicle, Garcia attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended.

A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed a black suitcase and a gray tote tapped shut in the rear hatch area. Inside both the suitcase and tote was a large amount of green leafy substance believed to be marijuana. The substance was weighed and totaled 52.4 pounds and tested positive for marijuana via field test.

Garcia was placed under arrest and transported to the La Salle County Jail for booking. He is facing charges of felony possession of marijuana, a third-degree felony punishable by up to 2 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Source: Encinal Police

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