ELIZABETHTOWN, KY — The Kentucky State Police is reporting that an early morning traffic stop on I-65 lead to the discovery of 120 pounds of Marijuana.
On Saturday morning February 5, 2022 at approximately 1:04 A.M. KSP Troopers conducted a traffic stop on a 2005 KIA Sorento passenger car on I-65 after observing the vehicle driving the wrong way on the I-65 southbound exit ramp at the 91 mile marker.
During the stop, troopers observed a strong smell of Marijuana coming from the vehicle being driven by Jose Mariano Garcia, age 47 of Lawrenceville, GA.
During a search of the vehicle, approximately 120 pounds of suspected Marijuana was located. The suspected Marijuana was discovered in three large boxes and a duffel bag.
Also discovered during the search was suspected Methamphetamine and two handguns.
Jose Garcia was arrested and charged with:
- Trafficking in Marijuana (> 5 lbs.), 1st Offense
- Possession of controlled substance 1st degree, Methamphetamine
- Improper turn-driving on a limited access highway
- Careless driving
- Possession of a Handgun by a convicted felon
This individual was lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center and is currently being held on a $25,000.00 CASH bond with a court date set for Friday, February 18, 2022 at 1:15 P.M.
Photo of the accused is courtesy of the Hardin County Detention Center.
The investigation is ongoing by Trooper Dillon Spencer.
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