CMV Trooper Discovers Marijuana Scent Masked with Yellow Mustard
Putnam County—Yesterday evening at 6:34, an Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Trooper stopped a white 2014 International tractor pulling a box trailer loaded with television parts, on eastbound Interstate 70 near the 36 mile marker for a routine safety inspection. The semi was traveling from California to Pennsylvania.
As the trooper initiated conversations with the driver, the trooper noticed an overwhelming smell of what appeared to be yellow mustard coming from within the cab area. Other indicators of possible criminal activity were noticed as well. A subsequent search of the cab revealed approximately (48) pounds of packaged high grade marijuana covered in yellow mustard. The 36 individual packages were weighed individually and ranged from approximately 1.25 pounds to approximately 1.50 pounds each with a street value estimated at $200,000.
Arrested: Richard Sherman, age 52, of El Cajon, California
Incarcerated in Putnam County Jail
Charges: Dealing Marijuana over 10 Pounds (Level 5 felony)
Possession of Marijuana over 10 pounds with Prior Offense (Level 6 felony)
Picture of seized marijuana attached.
Under the Law, criminal charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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SGT. JOE WATTS
