CHP K-9 sniffs out hidden compartment in car used to smuggle drugs and money, police say
A California Highway Patrol K-9 sniffed out a hidden compartment in a car, believed to function as a way to smuggle money and narcotics, according to police officials.
A 2005 Honda Odyssey was stopped by a CHP officer near Highway 99 and Plainsburg Road at around 8:30 on Friday night, officials said. After CHP K-9 Laika sniffed the exterior of the car, she alerted officers there was a positive odor for narcotics.
Officers searched the vehicle and found a “sophisticated hidden compartment built into the rear floor of the vehicle,” police officials said in a statement. Police found $37,460 in four sealed packages and a handgun, officials said.
The compartment, officials said, is believed to be used as a way to smuggle money and drugs.
The driver, Mauricio Lopez, and passenger, Rodolfo Lopez, both from Visalia, were arrested on weapons charges and possession of a false compartment used to smuggle drugs.
Monica Velez: 209-385-2486, @monicavelez21
This story was originally published July 30, 2017 at 3:47 PM with the headline "CHP K-9 sniffs out hidden compartment in car used to smuggle drugs and money, police say."