https://kfdm.com/news/local/jefferson-county-sheriffs-office-traffic-stop-leads-to-discovery-of-123000-cash

Detectives with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Office and K-9 Jaco uncovered more than $123,000 cash in a hidden compartment during a traffic stop, according to Capt. Crystal Holmes.

On July 29 at about 8:45 a.m., while working traffic on Interstate 10, Detectives with the Jefferson County Narcotics Office saw the driver of a a gray GMC SUV speeding 75 mph in a 55 mph construction zone. A traffic stop was conducted on IH10 West bound near Major Drive,

After speaking to both people in the vehicle, Detectives developed reasonable suspicion that criminal activity was taking place.

Consent to search the vehicle was denied. Jefferson County K-9 Jaco conducted a free air search of the vehicle. K-9 Jaco alerted to a narcotics odor within the vehicle.

A probable cause search was conducted and it revealed a hidden compartment in the left rear quarter panel. These hidden compartments are often used to conceal narcotics and/or currency used in illegal activities.

Detectives located two large plastic bags hidden inside the compartment that contained a large amount of U.S. currency. The manner in which the money was distinctively packaged and concealed is consistent with proceeds related to drug trafficking and/or money laundering, according to Capt. Holmes. The total amount seized was a little more than $123,000.00.

Both people denied any knowledge of the U.S. currency hidden within the rental vehicle. They were later released pending further investigation.

The currency was logged for safekeeping pending the outcome of the investigation.