A turn signal violation leads to the seizure of over one million dollars worth of cocaine in northwest Ohio.
The incident happened in Wood County on September 19th. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, troopers pulled over a cargo van with Texas registration on I-75, because they failed to use a turn signal when they were switching lanes. A drug-sniffing dog was called in and uncovered 33 pounds of cocaine. A Florida woman was arrested and charged with first-degree felony charges of possession and trafficking. If convicted on all the charges, she could face up to 22 years in prison and a fine of $40,000.
Press Release from the Ohio State Highway Patrol: COLUMBUS – Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers filed felony drug charges against a Florida woman after a traffic stop in Wood County. During the traffic stop, troopers seized 33 pounds of cocaine worth approximately $1,073,000.
On September 19, at 3:21 p.m., troopers stopped a 2018 Dodge Ram cargo van with Texas registration for a turn signal violation on Interstate 75. Criminal indicators were observed and a Patrol drug-sniffing canine alerted to the vehicle. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed the contraband.
The driver, Paige LaTonya-Katryna Hamilton, 32, Palm Bay, Fla., was incarcerated in the Wood County Jail and charged with possession and trafficking in drugs, both first-degree felonies.
If convicted, she could face up to 22 years in prison and up to a $40,000 fine.
A photo of the seized contraband is available for download on the Patrol’s website at www.statepatrol.ohio.gov
