Oregon State Police Intercept Massive Hauls of Illegal Drugs on I5

In an effort to combat the influx of illegal drugs, Oregon State Police (OSP) K-9 officers have made a series of significant seizures on Interstate 5 in Linn County. These interceptions are part of a broader campaign to prevent the circulation of dangerous substances on the streets.

Over the course of 30 days, OSP troopers conducted traffic stops on I5, leading to the confiscation of a staggering haul: 80,000 fentanyl pills, 14 pounds of fentanyl powder, and 92 pounds of cocaine. Each incident unfolded as troopers, through legal procedures, became suspicious of the occupants’ activities and proceeded to search the vehicles.

Here are the details of these operations:

On August 29, 2023, around 11:30 a.m., a trooper halted a vehicle for traffic violations on I5 north in Linn County. During a vehicle search, the trooper uncovered approximately 70,000 suspected fentanyl pills concealed in a backpack in the vehicle’s trunk.
On August 31, 2023, at approximately 9:55 a.m., a trooper stopped another vehicle on I5 north in Linn County. An ensuing search revealed several packages containing a total of 14.1 pounds of fentanyl powder.
On September 28, 2023, a trooper stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation on I5 north, in Linn County. A K-9 unit was deployed, which detected the presence of narcotics, leading to the issuance of a search warrant. During the vehicle search, over 10,000 fentanyl pills and 92 pounds of cocaine were seized.

Criminal charges have been filed in each case and are now under the jurisdiction of the appropriate authorities for prosecution.

OSP takes this opportunity to remind the public of the perilous consequences of illicit drug use, which stands as the leading cause of injury deaths in Oregon. For individuals dealing with substance use issues or facing a crisis, assistance is readily available. Reach out by calling or texting “988” or visiting 988lifeline.org for 24/7 free and confidential support.