February 10, 2005  Nacogdoches County, TX
Texas Troopers seize $2.3 Million in Cash on traffic stop

Texas DPS troopers seized $2.3 million during a traffic stop Tuesday in Nacogdoches County-the biggest traffic stop cash seizure in more than a year.

A Highway Patrol trooper pulled over an 18-wheeler for speeding Tuesday night north of Nacogdoches. The truck was southbound on U.S. 59.

During a search of the semi-trailer, the trooper discovered bundles of cash in a false compartment inside the refrigerated box car. The truck was hauling boxes of frozen chicken.

Juan Armando Castanon, 34, of Mission was arrested on state money laundering charges and taken to the Nacogdoches County jail. DPS Narcotics and the Drug Enforcement Administration are investigating the case. Federal charges are expected.

"Our training continues to pay big dividends, hitting drug dealers where it hurts the most" "in the wallet," said DPS Director Col. Thomas A. Davis Jr.

The $2.3 million seizure is the fourth largest traffic stop cash seizure in DPS history.

Source: Texas Department of Public Safety