March 28, 2024

Truckers nabbed at weigh station with $28.3 million in concealed drugs

Steve Smith

Truckers nabbed at weigh station with $28.3 million in concealed drugs

Two truck drivers were arrested on March 12th during a weigh station inspection in New Jersey after authorities discovered drugs valued at approximately $28.3 million hidden among cargo.

The bust: Ruben V. Rodriguez, 53, and Jose Santa Cruz Cheno, 59, were apprehended at the Greenwich Township Weigh Station on I-78, where their truck was initially inspected due to a failure to label some boxes, which ostensibly contained oranges.

Upon consented search of the truck, originating from Dinuba, California and bound for Long Island City, New York, officers discovered 3.4 tons of marijuana products.
The seizure included hydroponic marijuana, Delta 9A powder, and various packaged cannabis items.

Charges filed: The co-drivers, both legally present in the U.S. from Mexico, were charged with first-degree intent to distribute marijuana, fourth-degree possession of marijuana, and second-degree conspiracy to distribute marijuana.

Both men are now detained at the Warren County Jail awaiting further legal proceedings.

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