Traffic stop leads to big marijuana bust

RICHMOND, Ky. (WTVQ) – What began as a traffic stop for a minor violation ended with a major marijuana seizure and arrest in Madison County, according to State Police. Investigators say 29-year old Celio Mendoza, of Berea, was pulled over on US 25 near the Rockcastle County line on Wednesday for a minor traffic violation.

Investigators say Troopers noticed a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the 2002 Ford Ranger pickup truck. State Police say a search of the pickup turned up an estimated 100-pounds of processed marijuana. Mendoza was arrested at the scene and charged with Trafficking in Marijuana (over five pounds) and lodged in the Madison County Detention Center in Richmond.