OSHP troopers seize $1.2M worth of drugs after traffic stop

EATON, Ohio — Two California women face felony drug charges after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers seized about 195 pounds of hydroponic marijuana, worth an estimated $1.2 million after a traffic stop in Preble County.

According to a patrol news release, troopers stopped a 2009 Winnebago RV, with Nevada registration, for a following-too-close violation on Interstate 70 in Preble County, at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Criminal indicators were observed and a patrol drug-sniffing canine alerted to the vehicle. A probable-cause search revealed numerous cardboard boxes in the rear cargo storage area that contained 197 vacuum sealed bags of hydroponic marijuana.

The driver, Araceli Diaz Cruz, 25, of Ukiah, Calf., and passenger, Almeida Maridantia Alexandra, 37, of Santa Rose, Calf., are charged with possession of marijuana, a second-degree felony, and possession of criminal tools, a fifth-degree felony.

Both suspects were placed in the Preble County Jail.