OSHP troopers seize $1.2M worth of suspected heroin in Preble County

EATON, Ohio — Two suspects from Chicago face felony drug charges after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers seized 8 kilos of suspected heroin, worth an estimated $1.2 million, after a traffic stop in Preble County.

According to the patrol, troopers stopped a 2001 Honda Accord, with Illinois registration, for a speed violation on Interstate 70 near milepost 4, at 11:42 a.m. Tuesday. Criminal indicators were observed and a patrol drug-sniffing canine alerted to the vehicle.

A probable-cause search revealed the suspected drug in an electronically controlled hidden compartment built into the rear bumper.

The driver, Emerita M. Irias, 43, and passenger, Jose Luis Cruz-Martinez, 29, were charged with possession of heroin, a first-degree felony and possession of criminal tools, a fifth-degree felony.

Both were placed in the Preble County Jail. If convicted, each could face up to 11 years in prison and up to a $22,500 fine.