For further information please contact: Sergeant D.S. Bracker
(417)895-6767 ext.253
D2009-18
March 9, 2009

EMPHASIS: Drug Seizure, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Troop D


On Saturday, March 7, 2009, an eastbound 1998 Freightliner tractor-trailer was stopped by a trooper for a lane violation on Interstate 44 at the 81-mile marker, in Greene County. Due to suspicious logbook entries, the trooper requested and received consent to search. As a result of the search, 157 pounds of marijuana, in duffel bags and boxes, was located under the bottom bunk of the sleeper berth, and in a side compartment on the tractor.

The driver, Jose C. Rodriguez, 50, of El Paso, TX, was arrested for drug trafficking.

The charge for which the above person was arrested is a mere accusation and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of this charge must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence.