10/13/2023
Oregon State Police Intercept Illegal Drugs on I-5
K-9 officers seize 80,000 fentanyl pills, 14 pounds of fentanyl powder, and 92 pounds of co***ne
SALEM, Ore. 13 Oct. 2023 – Recently, Oregon State Police (OSP) K-9 officers have seized significant quantities of illegal drugs bound for distribution. The effort is part of a targeted campaign to intercept these deadly substances before they reach the street.
Traffic stops on I-5, in Linn County, led to the seizure of 80,000 fentanyl pills, 14 pounds of fentanyl powder, and 92 pounds of co***ne within 30 days. During each investigation, as part of the enforcement action, the trooper became suspicious of the occupants’ behavior and obtained lawful authority to search the vehicle.
On Aug. 29, 2023, at approximately 11:30 a.m., a trooper stopped a vehicle for traffic violations on I-5 north, in Linn County. A search of the vehicle was conducted and the trooper located approximately 70,000 suspected fentanyl pills hidden in a backpack in the vehicle’s trunk.
On Aug. 31, 2023, at approximately 9:55 a.m., a trooper stopped a vehicle on I-5 north, in Linn County. During a search of the vehicle, the trooper located several packages that contained a total of 14.1 pounds of fentanyl powder.
On Sept. 28, 2023, a trooper stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on I-5 north, in Linn County. A K-9 was deployed, alerted to the odor of narcotics and a search warrant for the vehicle was obtained. During the vehicle search more than 10,000 fentanyl pills and 92 pounds of co***ne were seized.
Criminal charges in each case have been referred to the appropriate jurisdiction for prosecution.
OSP reminds the public of the danger of illicit drug use, which is the leading cause of injury deaths in Oregon. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use or is in crisis, help is available. Call or text “988” or visit 988lifeline.org to chat. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for free and confidential support.
