Traffic Stop in East Bay Leads to 125-Pound Marijuana Seizure

16 February 2025

California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers in Contra Costa County seized over 125 pounds of marijuana during a routine traffic stop for speeding. Officers discovered multiple garbage bags filled with cannabis in the back seat and trunk of the vehicle. The driver and passenger were arrested and charged with drug possession, as the quantity exceeded the legal possession limits under California marijuana laws. While recreational cannabis is legal in the state, individuals may only possess up to 28.5 grams for personal use. Possession of large quantities without a state license can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on prior convictions.

This case underscores the challenges in regulating California’s cannabis industry, where illicit marijuana transportation continues to be a concern. While licensed cannabis businesses can legally distribute marijuana, unauthorized transportation of large amounts is prohibited. The incident also highlights ongoing enforcement efforts to prevent unlicensed cannabis distribution in regions with high cannabis cultivation activity. For medical marijuana patients and cannabis consumers, the case serves as a reminder of California’s strict possession limits, reinforcing the importance of compliance with state cannabis laws.