TRAFFIC STOP IN CHESTERTON LEADS TO SEIZURE OF OVER 8 POUNDS OF MARIJUANA PRODUCTS
A routine traffic stop on I-94 near Chesterton turned into a major drug bust this weekend, resulting in the seizure of over 3,800 grams (8.4 pounds) of marijuana products and nearly 400 THC vape pens, according to a charging document.
At approximately 9:46 AM on May 3, Indiana State Trooper Kevin Council observed a silver 2005 Chevy Equinox with an obscured license plate traveling westbound. After initiating a traffic stop near the 27-mile marker, he made contact with the driver and passenger, identified as Robert Bellows, both of Sterling, Illinois.
Trooper Council noted signs of nervous behavior and a strong odor of raw marijuana coming from the vehicle. During the stop, Bellows admitted to having marijuana on his person, leading to a full search of the vehicle.
The search uncovered:
- Over 3,800 grams of marijuana products, including bagged cannabis flower labeled “Grasshopper Farms,” “Kush Cake,” “Popcorn Mintz,” and “TrapStarz”
- 398 sealed THC vape pens labeled “Ripz”
- 100 bags of THC-infused gummies labeled “Dank Extracts Cannabis Edibles”
- Additional paraphernalia and packaging materials
Bellows admitted ownership of all marijuana found in the vehicle. The driver was released from the scene.
Bellows was transported to the Porter County Jail and charged with a Level 6 Felony for dealing Marijuana.
