SEVIER COUNTY, Utah — An Iowa family was taken into custody after a traffic stop in Sevier County led to the discovery of several pounds of marijuana and a loaded weapon in their vehicle Monday morning.
At about 8 a.m., Utah Highway Patrol stopped Abel Medina Rios on Interstate 70 near Salina. The Storm Lake, Iowa man was traveling with his 28-year-old daughter, Raquel Medina and 26-year-old son, Abel Medina.
Troopers suspected drug activity and a K-9 was deployed. During the dog’s search, it sensed drugs, according to UHP.
Fifty-five pounds of marijuana and a loaded .32 caliber handgun were recovered, according to UHP. The three individuals were booked into Sevier County Jail.
Utah State Bureau of Investigation agents contacted Storm Lake Public Safety. Iowa authorities executed three search warrants in connection with the investigation by Utah SBI, UHP indicates.
Iowa investigators seized two firearms along with quantities of marijuana, crystal methamphetamine, drug packaging materials, cell phones, $2,681 in cash and other equipment associated will illegal drug distribution, UHP indicates.
“Utah DPS-BSI agents worked hand-in-hand with Iowa authorities to arrest those that would bring the drug trade and the guns used in that trade, to our communities,” said Maj. Brian Redd, with the Utah Department of Public Safety.
The investigation is ongoing in Iowa and Utah. The Medinas are facing charges of felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by restricted persons.
