August 14, 2026 – Merced CHP officials report that on August 12, 2026, a California Highway Patrol Central Division Canine Officer conducted a traffic stop on a 2025 Honda CR-V on Interstate 5 in Merced County for a traffic violation.

During the stop, the officer identified several indicators of possible criminal activity. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a bag containing approximately 30 pounds of suspected cocaine, with an estimated street value of $817,200.

The driver was detained without incident and the investigation was turned over to the Merced Area Gang Narcotics Enforcement Team (MAGNET).

The driver was arrested and later booked into the Merced County Main Jail for possession of cocaine for sale and transportation of cocaine across noncontiguous counties.

Source & photos: Merced CHP