Two Oregon men were arrested in California after a routine traffic stop led to the discovery of a large quantity of cocaine in their vehicle, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The incident took place on Sept. 7, just north of Fresno.
CHP officers pulled over 24-year-old Tyler Lee Smith of Philomath, Oregon, and 20-year-old Angel Pacheco of Albany, Oregon, for a traffic violation. Upon questioning, the officer found probable cause to search the vehicle, resulting in the seizure of approximately 37 pounds of cocaine. Authorities estimate the street value of the drugs at $1.3 million.
Both men were subsequently arrested and booked into Merced County Jail. They face serious charges, including possession of cocaine for sale, transportation of cocaine across non-contiguous counties, and conspiracy to distribute cocaine.