MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop A - 504 SE Blue Parkway - Lee's Summit, MO 64063


NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Sgt. Collin Stosberg
(816) 622-0800 ext. 259
A2012-5
March 14, 2012

EMPHASIS: Missouri State Troopers Make Two Drug Seizures On I-70


On March 13, 2012, a Missouri state trooper stopped a 1997 Ford Expedition for a traffic violation on eastbound Interstate 70 near the 79-mile marker in Saline County, Missouri. During the course of the traffic stop, inconsistencies and deceptive behavior of the driver led the trooper to ask for consent to search the vehicle, which was granted. A Missouri State Highway Patrol canine gave a positive indication of drugs in the vehicle. The trooper subsequently searched the vehicle, locating 117 pounds of marijuana concealed inside the spare tire, rear fenders, and ceiling.
Jose Esequiel-Puc, 40, and Gloria Castillo-Sanchez, 27, both from Denver, Colorado, were arrested for second degree drug trafficking and transported to Saline County Jail.
Also on March 13, 2012, a Missouri state trooper stopped a 2002 Chevrolet 1500 truck for a traffic violation on eastbound Interstate 70 near the 68-mile marker in Saline County, Missouri. During the course of the traffic stop, deceptive behavior of the driver led the trooper to ask for consent to search the vehicle, which was granted. The trooper subsequently searched the vehicle and located a fire extinguisher, still in the box. A Missouri State Highway Patrol canine gave a positive indication of drugs inside the fire extinguisher. The trooper subsequently searched the false fire extinguisher and located two pounds of methamphetamine.
Emilio Estrada-Rodriguez, 58, of Sedalia, Missouri, was arrested for first degree drug trafficking and transported to the Saline County Jail.
The charges for which the above individuals were arrested are mere accusations and not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the above charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.
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