OSHP seizes suspected marijuana in Richland County

MANSFIELD — A California man is faces felony drug charges after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers seized 4 pounds of suspected hydroponic marijuana valued at nearly 18,000 during a traffic stop in Richland County.

According to a patrol report, a trooper stopped a rented 2011 Toyota Camry for a speed violation on Interstate 71 northbound about 2:23 p.m. Tuesday. Criminal indicators were observed and a patrol drug-sniffing dog alerted to the vehicle. A probable-cause search revealed the suspected drug.

The driver, Marvin Hardeman, 44, of Oakland, Calif., was charged with possession of marijuana, a fifth-degree felony, and trafficking in marijuana, a third-degree felony.

The suspect was taken to Richland County jail. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.