Driver arrested after CHP K-9 and officer find about $400K during traffic stop

A California Highway Patrol K-9 named “Beny” and an officer recently found suspected drug money during traffic stop in Merced County.

According to CHP Central Division Public Information Officer Kristopher Moreno, the officer stopped a 2019 Dodge van Friday for a speeding violation at about 1 p.m. in the area of northbound Interstate 5 and West Nees Avenue.

As the officer approached the suspect vehicle, he noticed the odor of burning marijuana, according to a news release.

While making contact with the driver, identified as Ryan Smith 29, of North Carolina, the officer noticed several factors that led him to believe the driver was engaged in criminal activity, according to Moreno.

The CHP said Beny was used to conduct an exterior sniff of the vehicle and alerted to the odor of drugs. During a probable cause search of the vehicle, the officer located a marijuana cigarette, loose marijuana and ashes scattered throughout the driver compartment.

The officer also discovered about $400,000 in cash, most of which was heat sealed in plastic, located inside a backpack and gym bag, the CHP said.

According to the CHP, an investigation led officers to believe the money was derived from the sale of drugs.

Smith was arrested on suspicion of possessing over $100,000 obtained as the result of the unlawful sale of drugs and other allegations.

This story was originally published June 23, 2020 at 5:25 PM.