CHP K9 spots $150,000+ from narcotics sales in vehicle near Firebaugh, officers say

A suspect was detained Monday by authorities after a California Highway Patrol dog located more than $150,000 connected to narcotics sales during traffic stop in Fresno County, officers say.

At about 1:20 p.m. officers from the Los Banos area office conducted an enforcement stop for a vehicle infraction on a black 2020 Chrysler van traveling northbound on Interstate 5 at West Nees Avenue, west of Firebaugh, according to CHP Officer Eric Zuniga.

According to the CHP, the officer observed indicators of narcotics related criminal activity while making contact with the driver, Daniel Ortega, 36, of Santa Cruz.

CHP K9 officer “Beny” was used to sniff the exterior of the vehicle and alerted to the odor of narcotics.

During a search of the vehicle authorities located what they described as “bundles of currency,” most of which were found to be wrapped in plastic wrap.

Authorities also said some bundles had what appeared to be vinegar soaked rags also inside the plastic wrap. The vinegar soaked rags are sometimes used in an attempt to interfere with the dog’s sense of smell, according to Zuniga.

The CHP said a total of about $167,970 was recovered during the stop. According to Zuniga, officers did not locate narcotics in the vehicle during the search.

Authorities interviewed the suspect and they determined the money was derived from the sale of narcotics.

The CHP seized, the currency which is pending asset forfeiture proceedings. According to Zuniga, the suspect was not immediately booked into jail and information has been forwarded to the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office for charges.