For Immediate Release: March 21, 2012
Contact: Lt. Jon Payer (937) 773-0242

Troopers seize $1.2 million worth of heroin in Preble County

EATON – Two suspects from Chicago are facing felony drug charges after Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers seized 8 kilos of heroin, worth an estimated $1.2 million, following a traffic stop in Preble County.

Troopers stopped a 2001 Honda Accord, with Illinois registration, for a speed violation on Interstate 70 near milepost 4, at approximately 11:42 a.m. on March 20. Criminal indicators were observed and a Patrol drug-sniffing canine alerted to the vehicle. A probable cause search revealed the 8 kilos of heroin in an electronically controlled hidden compartment built into the rear bumper.

The driver, Emerita M. Irias, 43, and passenger, Jose Luis Cruz-Martinez, 29, were charged with possession of heroin, a first-degree felony and possession of criminal tools, a fifth-degree felony.

Both suspects were incarcerated in the Preble County Jail. If convicted, each could face up to11 years in prison and up to a $22,500 fine.

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