Traffic Stop in Louisiana Results in Seizure of Over 7 lbs of Cocaine and the Arrest of Two

Livingston Parish, Louisiana – Two people were arrested after a traffic stop in Louisiana resulted in the seizure of more than seven pounds of cocaine.

A traffic stop in Walker, Louisiana, on June 13, 2023, resulted in a cocaine seizure and the arrest of two individuals, according to the Walker Police Department.

Walker Police, according to reports, performed the traffic stop on Interstate 12 near the Walker exit Tuesday afternoon after spotting a routine traffic violation. Officers reportedly grew concerned that the vehicle held drugs while questioning the occupants and contacted a Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office K-9 team. A search of the vehicle uncovered seven packed parcels that tested positive for cocaine after the K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics.

“The vehicle driven by the suspects, a 2018 Dodge Charger, was found to have 3.5 kilos (7.7 lbs) of cocaine hidden under the backseat,” said Walker Police Chief David Addison. “The street value of the cocaine seized is estimated at approximately $150,000.”

Walker Police arrested the vehicle’s driver, Michael D. Hernandez, 43, of San Benito, Texas, and the female passenger, Nohemi Vazquez Puente, 43, of Mexico. Both individuals were charged with Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substances and were booked into the Livingston Parish Detention Center. Hernandez was also charged with driving infractions.

“In addition to the arrest, we intend to explore the possibility of asset forfeiture with respect to the suspect’s vehicle. We want to send the message to people involved in the trafficking and distribution of dangerous drugs that we are going to use every tool available to us to go after such offenders,” said Chief Addison. “This seizure and arrest illustrates the importance of active traffic enforcement efforts, as well as the benefits of working closely with our law enforcement partners.”

The suspects are still being held at the Livingston Parish Detention Center. Hernandez’s bond is set at $50,200.00, while Vazquez Puente’s bond is set at $50,000.00.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.