SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A record meth bust by the South Dakota Highway Patrol near Sturgis was announced by Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden on Monday.
According to Rhoden’s office, a South Dakota Highway Patrol trooper pulled over a 42-year-old man for speeding, who was found to be transporting approximately 207 pounds of crystal methamphetamine with a street value of $12 million.
During the stop, a police service dog alerted the trooper to the presence of an odor it is trained to detect.
This is the largest meth seizure in Highway Patrol history, according to Rhoden.
The driver is reported to be a “non-citizen and is now in immigration proceedings,” Rhoden’s office said in a press release.
“We are taking action to protect the people of South Dakota from criminals and drug traffickers. Our Highway Patrol showed incredible professionalism in achieving this record drug bust,” said Rhoden in a press release. “I promised that my administration would keep South Dakota strong, safe, and free – and we will continue to deliver on that promise through Operation: Prairie Thunder.”
The driver is charged with Felony Distribution/Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance II, Felony Possession of a Controlled Drug/Substance, and Misdemeanor Possession or use of Drug Paraphernalia.
The driver is presumed innocent on all charges under the U.S. Constitution.
This is a developing story.
