Traffic stop uncovers $1.5M in heroin

WAYNE COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) - Officers pulling over a vehicle for a traffic violation in Wayne County uncovered 22 pounds of suspected heroin, with an estimated street value of $1.5 million.

The bust is believed to be the largest highway seizure of heroin in the history of Indiana, according to the Pro-Active Criminal Enforcement task force. The group has officers from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Richmond Police Department, Hancock County Sheriff’s Office and Greenfield Police Department.

A deputy pulled over 23-year-old John C. Martinez, of Whittier, Calif., who was driving a 1999 Chevrolet Impala. The deputy saw signs of criminal activity and called in K-9 Cain to sniff the vehicle.

The investigation uncovered 30 packages of suspected heroin in the car’s passenger area and trunk. Officers also found about $25,000 in cash.

Martinez was taken into custody and a federal indictment against him is pending. Police believe the drugs were headed toward the Columbus, Ohio area.