Three people from Illinois were arrested after a traffic stop on Interstate 80 near Ogallala in Keith County led to the seizure of 23.1 lbs. of marijuana.

Around 9:30 p.m. (MDT), on Wednesday, January 8, a trooper stopped a 2014 Chevy Tahoe for speeding on eastbound Interstate 80 near the Ogallala exit.  The trooper made contact with the driver and smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle.

A probable cause search of the SUV led to the seizure of 23.1 lbs. of marijuana. The 22 vacuum sealed packages of marijuana were contained in garbage bags behind the seat in the rear cargo area of the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle, Jesse A. Eggers, 29, Peoria, Ill., and passengers Cornia Sumner, 21, East Peoria, Ill., and Alfredo J. Acevedo, 29, Peoria, Ill., were each lodged in the Keith County Jail on charges of Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Deliver.