OSP Seize Largest Amount of Cash in Department`s History

Preliminary count of the seized cash was approximately $471,325.00

(Salem) - Oregon State Police troopers, assisted by a Salem Police Department canine unit, seized what is believed to be the largest amount of cash during an Oregon traffic stop Sunday afternoon on Interstate 5 near Salem. Investigators believe the cash is associated with narcotic trafficking activity and the investigation is continuing. Major Dan Durbin says just before 5:00 PM an OSP trooper and recruit were working together on Interstate 5 just north of Salem near milepost 260 southbound when they stopped a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche utility vehicle displaying Washington plates for going 80 mph in a 65 mph posted speed area. During the contact, troopers became suspicious and conducted a search of the vehicle with the assistance of a Salem Police Department trained canine. The canine alerted to the bed's exterior of the utility vehicle. Closer examination revealed a false compartment in the vehicle's bed area above the rear axle where troopers found a large amount of cash. The vehicle and cash were seized. The driver, a 22-year old female from Seattle, Washington, has not been arrested and the investigation is continuing. Review of previous OSP traffic stop-related cash seizures indicates this may be the largest in the Department's history Durbin said.