Two men were arrested by Oregon State Police (OSP) early Tuesday morning after more than 100 pounds of marijuana was found concealed in a pickup during a traffic stop on Interstate 5 in the Medford area.
According to OSP Sergeant Tanya Henderson, on July 20, 2010 at approximately 4:38 a.m. an OSP trooper stopped a 2005 GMC pickup displaying California license plates northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 32 for a speed violation. The two occupants were identified as driver JUAN CARLOS TINOCO-CARRANZA, age 25, from Tacoma, Washington, and passenger EUSTAQUIO GARCIA-GARCIA, age 23, from Brentwood, California.
Subsequent investigation during the traffic stop led to the discovery and seizure of approximately 102 lbs. of marijuana concealed under a blanket in the pickup's back seat. Estimated value of the seized marijuana is over $250,000.
Both men were arrested and lodged in the Jackson County Jail for Unlawful Possession, Distribution and Manufacture of a Controlled Substance – Marijuana. The Jackson County Sheriff's Office jail website also reflects ICE holds on both men.
OSP Drug Enforcement Section is continuing the investigation.
Photograph Sources:
Marijuana – OSP
Suspect Photos – Jackson County Sheriff's Office