COLUMBUS – Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers filed a felony drug charge against two California men after an encounter in Madison County. While interacting with the suspects, troopers seized 14 pounds of methamphetamine worth approximately $140,000.
On January 25, at 11:33 a.m., troopers made contact with the occupants of a 2019 Chevrolet Malibu with Colorado registration for parking in a prohibited location violation at a rest area on Interstate 70. Criminal indicators were observed, and a Patrol drug-sniffing canine alerted to the vehicle. A probable cause search revealed the contraband.
The driver, Jonathan Rios, 25, and passenger, Josue Picazo-Puga, 22, both of Salinas, Calif., were incarcerated in the Tri-County Jail and charged with possession of methamphetamine, a first-degree felony.
If convicted, each could face up to 11 years in prison and up to a $20,000 fine.
