OSP traffic stop leads to arrest, seizure of 40 pounds of pot

BROOKS, Ore. -- An Oregon State Police (OSP) trooper arrested a Santa Barbara, Calif., man on drug-related charges early Wednesday morning during a traffic stop north of Brooks after approximately 40 pounds of marijuana was found inside the car.

According to OSP Sergeant Dale Young, on November 4, 2009 at approximately 2:40 a.m. an OSP trooper stopped a rented 2008 Nissan Altima displaying Arizona license plates northbound on Interstate 5 near milepost 265 for failure to maintain a lane of travel.  During the traffic stop the driver was identified as LA VONGPANYA, age 32, from Santa Barbara, Calif.

Subsequent investigation related to the traffic stop led to the discovery of approximately 40 lbs. of marijuana hidden inside duffel bags in the car's trunk.  An OSP drug detection canine assisted during the stop and discovery of the estimated $100,000 worth of marijuana.

VONGPANYA was arrested and lodged at the Marion County Jail for Unlawful Possession, Distribution and Manufacture of a Controlled Substance - Marijuana.  Bail is set at $80,000.

OSP Drug Enforcement Section detectives are continuing the investigation.