x
Breaking News
More () »

184 pounds of cocaine found inside boxes of onions during Hancock County traffic stop

The two men from California were transported to the Hancock County Jail on probable cause of possession of cocaine.

INDIANA, USA — Two men from California have been charged with multiple felonies after authorities reported they found 184 pounds of cocaine in their possession during a traffic stop in Hancock County.

Jose N. Perez, 66, and Miguel Rodriguez, 60, both face felony charges of dealing and possession of cocaine.

An Indiana State Police trooper was patrolling Interstate 70, near Mount Comfort Road, around 1:15 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18 when an eastbound semi caught his attention, according to a report from ISP. 

Credit: Indiana State Police
Indiana State Police troopers found 184 pounds of cocaine in a box of onions during a traffic stop Feb. 18, 2024, on I-70, near Mount Comfort Road.

Part of the inspections included a review of the required paperwork and log-book, which revealed a log-book violation. 

The trooper reportedly requested to search the semi shortly after, and the driver consented to the search, according to ISP. 

The trooper allegedly found dozens of packages he suspected to be cocaine, and ISP reported a field test later confirmed his suspicion that the substance was cocaine.

The drugs were located inside boxes of onions, among other produce in the trailer, according to police.

Credit: Indiana State Police
Indiana State Police troopers found 184 pounds of cocaine in a box of onions during a traffic stop Feb. 18, 2024, on I-70, near Mount Comfort Road.

The driver of the semi and the passenger were both arrested and transported to the Hancock County Jail on probable cause of possession of cocaine, according to ISP. 

The Hancock County Prosecutor's Office has reviewed the case and subsequently filed formal charges against both men in the Hancock Superior Court.

Their initial hearings are scheduled for Friday, Feb. 23.

Before You Leave, Check This Out