On September 20, Illinois State Police made a record-breaking seizure of over 5,000 pounds of cannabis during an Interstate 80 traffic stop in Henry County, arresting two California residents in the process According to NBC Chicago, thirty-three-year-old Pedro Arreola and 29-year-old Roberto Mazo, both from Lancaster, California, are now facing multiple charges, including cannabis trafficking and unlawful possession of cannabis of more than 5,000 grams with intent to deliver.
During the traffic stop involving the suspects' vehicle—a 2000 Provost Bus—the state trooper observed "numerous indicators" of criminal activity, which prompted further investigation. An ISP K-9 unit was called to the scene, and upon detecting the odor of narcotics, state troopers initiated a search of the vehicle, WISN reported. A staggering 5,231 pounds of illegal cannabis were found within, boasting an estimated street value between $6.3 and $14.7 million.
This monumental bust is one of the largest cannabis seizures in the Illinois State Police's history. The legal consequences for Arreola and Mazo may be life-altering; both Californians are now charged with Class X felonies for cannabis trafficking and unlawful possession of cannabis (more than 5,000 grams) with intent to deliver. Further charges are still pending, as the investigation carries on.
Following a hearing on September 21, Arreola and Mazo were released on pre-trial conditions, according to NBC Chicago.
