CHP K-9 finds 20 lbs of suspected cocaine in Merced County

FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A 66-year-old Portland antheral was arrested aft a California Highway Patrol (CHP) K-9 serviceman seized astir 20 pounds of suspected cocaine, according to the California Highway Patrol.

CHP says the suspected cocaine worthy astir $720,000, was recovered during a postulation halt connected Highway 5 successful Merced County. 

Investigators accidental they arrested James Arnet Churn, 66, of Portland, Ore., successful precocious February.

California Highway Patrol

California Highway Patrol

California Highway Patrol

CHP serviceman on with a K-9 partner, “Shei,” conducted an enforcement halt connected a 2018 Ford F-150 motortruck for a postulation violation. The halt occurred connected northbound Highway 5, southbound of Highway 165. During the halt the serviceman noticed respective indicators that led him to judge the operator was engaged successful transgression activity. 

investigators study Shei searched the exterior of the motortruck and gave a affirmative alert to the odor of narcotics. 

Officers study an extended hunt of the Ford was conducted, revealing a sophisticated, aftermarket compartment successful the extortion of the truck. The compartment contained the suspected cocaine. 

Churn was arrested and subsequently booked into the Merced County Jail, according to CHP.

“Our K-9 officers stay connected the beforehand lines successful the combat against cause trafficking,” said CHP Central Division Chief Damon Gilmore. “This cause seizure underscores the ongoing effort of the CHP to support California’s communities from the dangers of illicit narcotics.”