WALKER – A traffic stop in Walker led to two arrests and the seizure of 3.5 kilos of cocaine.
Walker police say the traffic stop occurred on I-12 near the Walker exit Tuesday afternoon after observing a routine traffic offense.
While questioning those in the car, officials say the officers became suspicious that the vehicle contained contraband and called the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office K-9 team.
A search revealed several sealed packages that were confirmed to be cocaine.
Police arrested Michael Hernandez, 43, of San Benito, Texas, and Nohemi Vazquez Puente, 43, of Mexico.
“The vehicle driven by the suspects, a 2018 Dodge Charger, was found to have 3.5 kilos (7.7 pounds) of cocaine under the backseat,” said Walker Police Chief David Addison. “The street value of the cocaine seized is estimated at approximately $150,000.”
Both suspects were booked into the Livingston Parish Detention Center on charges of possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance. Hernandez was also charged with traffic violations.
Addison said the department intends to explore having Hernandez’s car forfeited.
Hernandez’s bond is set at $50,200. Vaquez Puente’s bond is $50,000.
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