Traffic stops lead to arrests

$207k seized in traffic stop

While conducting a traffic stop on a 2007 Dodge Charger for a traffic violation, Deputy C. Martinez of the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office observed several behavioral indicators and criminal interdiction tradecraft consistent with illicit activity.

Based on these observations, Deputy Martinez requested assistance from the Atlanta Police Department to deploy K9 Stryker for a free-air sniff around the exterior of the vehicle. Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers also responded to assist.

K9 Stryker alerted to the odor of narcotics, prompting a probable cause search of the vehicle. During the search, Deputy Martinez located duffel bags inside the vehicle containing U.S. currency.

The preliminary estimate of the seized currency is approximately $207,000. An official count will be conducted at a local financial institution in accordance with agency protocol.

The driver was taken into custody and arrested for Money Laundering, in violation of Texas Penal Code Section 34.02(e)(3) a first-degree felony involving an amount between $150,000 and $300,000. The driver was also charged with Tampering with a Government Record.

Additional investigative efforts are underway in coordination with federal partners.

Deputy C. Martinez continues to be a valuable asset to Cass County and the greater East Texas region in the fight against drug trafficking and organized criminal activity. The Cass County Sheriff ’s Office remains committed to protecting its communities through proactive interdiction, interagency cooperation and professional policing.