I-5 Traffic Stop Leads to Discovery of 10,000 Fentanyl Pills

Linn County, Oregon– A recent traffic stop conducted by Oregon State Police (OSP) has resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of fentanyl powder and pills destined for the streets.

On Feb. 16, 2024, around 4:30 p.m., an OSP trooper halted a silver Honda Accord at milepost 219 on Interstate 5 for a traffic violation. The trooper became suspicious of the vehicle’s occupants due to their behavior, indicating potential involvement in drug-related activities. In response, a K-9 unit was promptly summoned to the scene for assistance.

The K-9 unit flagged the presence of possible illegal substances. Subsequently, a thorough search of the vehicle uncovered a stash of 10,000 fentanyl pills and four pounds of fentanyl powder concealed within a grocery bag positioned behind the driver’s seat. Additionally, a small quantity of other illicit narcotics was discovered in the vehicle.

The vehicle’s operator, identified as Danny Yohan Cruz Benitz, aged 18, hailing from Oakland, California, was taken into custody. Cruz Benitz faces charges of possession of a controlled substance and attempted delivery of a controlled substance. Accompanying him was passenger Walter Omar Mayorga Aguilar, aged 20, from Sacramento, California, who was also arrested. Aguilar faces charges of possession of a controlled substance, attempted delivery of a controlled substance, and a parole/probation violation.

The investigation into the matter remains ongoing, with law enforcement authorities refraining from releasing further details at this juncture.