Authorities in Crawford County made a major drug bust this week after the Arkansas Highway Police discovered thousands of pounds of marijuana hidden inside a commercial vehicle. The large-scale operation resulted in roughly 3,000 pounds of pot seized along Interstate 40, marking one of the biggest drug interceptions the county has seen this year.
According to officials, the discovery happened during a routine safety inspection conducted by highway police on I-40 in Crawford County. What started as a standard check quickly escalated when officers noticed inconsistencies in the truck’s cargo manifest. Upon further investigation, they uncovered six pallets of pot seized concealed between a shipment of pool tables.
The driver, identified as 43-year-old Steve Williams, was immediately taken into custody and transported to the Crawford County Detention Center. Law enforcement officials say Williams was en route from California to Florida when he was stopped. He now faces serious charges, including possession with intent to deliver and firearm possession during drug trafficking.
The Arkansas Highway Police praised the alertness of their officers, noting that this Crawford County drug bust demonstrates the importance of regular inspections along major interstate routes. With the large quantity of pot seized, authorities believe the drugs were intended for distribution across multiple states.
Officials reported that the pot seized was packaged tightly within shrink-wrapped bundles and distributed across six pallets to disguise it as part of a legitimate shipment. The total street value of the pot seized in Crawford County is estimated to be worth several million dollars.
Law enforcement agencies in Crawford County have been ramping up their efforts to intercept illegal drug shipments traveling through Arkansas. Interstate 40 is a well-known corridor for cross-country trafficking, making it a priority area for inspection and enforcement. The latest case of pot seized underscores how traffickers continue to use commercial vehicles to conceal contraband in plain sight.
Authorities say the investigation into the pot seized in Crawford County is ongoing, and additional arrests could follow.
Local officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious transport activity. With 3,000 pounds of pot seized, Crawford County law enforcement has once again proven its commitment to combating illegal drug distribution across Arkansas.
The successful interception not only keeps dangerous substances off the streets but also reinforces Crawford County’s growing reputation for strong, coordinated drug enforcement efforts.
