Two California men were arrested in one of the largest drug seizures in Illinois State Police History in Henry County according to a release by the Illinois State Police. On September 20, 2023, the Illinois State Police seized approximately 5,231 pounds of illegal cannabis during a traffic stop on Interstate 80 near Geneseo. Around 5:30 PM, an ISP Trooper conducted a traffic stop on a 2000 Provost Bus on I-80 Eastbound and observed numerous indications of criminal activity. An ISP Canine was called to assist and alerted to the order of narcotics. A search of the vehicle uncovered approximately 5,231 pounds of cannabis with a value between $6.3 and $14.7 millions dollars. A Preliminary Hearing is scheduled for September 25, 2023, at 2 PM for both subjects.
Robert Mazo, 29, and Pedro Arreola, 33, both from Lancaster, California, were arrested for Cannabis Trafficking and transported to the Henry County Jail. Both men are charged with Cannabis Trafficking > 5,000 Grams (Class X Felony), Delivery of Cannabis > 5,000 Grams (Class X Felony) and Unlawful Possession of Cannabis > 5,000 Grams (Class 1 Felony).
The Henry County State’s Attorney’s Office filed petitions to detain on each subject, which were denied on September 21st. The judge released the subjects on pretrial conditions and are not allowed to leave Illinois without consent from the Court. The investigation continues with the potential for additional charges pending. No further information is available.