On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, an Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) trooper conducted a traffic stop on a Dodge Durango departing the Phoenix area for a civil violation. During the stop, the trooper noticed multiple signs of potential criminal activity, prompting a drug detection canine to inspect the vehicle. The canine alerted to the presence of drugs, leading troopers to discover approximately 51.4 pounds of fentanyl pills concealed in a large tote bag inside the SUV.
The street value of the seized fentanyl is estimated at approximately $500,000.
Investigators believe the drugs were being transported from Phoenix to the Houston area. The driver of the vehicle was arrested and is currently being held at the Maricopa County Jail on charges of possession and transportation of narcotic drugs for sale.
