Patrol arrests 2, seizes 312 pounds of marijuana

2/15/2003

Two Arizona men were arrested yesterday after Ohio Highway Patrol troopers found about 312 pounds of marijuana in their vehicle that was stopped for a minor traffic violation on the Ohio Turnpike near Toledo Express, authorities said.

Jose Antonio Ortega, 25, of Tucson, and Eduardo Castelo, 38, of Congress, were charged with drug abuse and trafficking in drugs, arraigned in Maumee Municipal Court, and booked into the Lucas County jail.

The vehicle, driven by Mr. Ortega, was stopped about 1 p.m. for following too closely while traveling eastbound on the turnpike, troopers said.

Sgt. Robin Schmutz, a patrol spokesman in Columbus, said the marijuana was regular-grade but refused to confirm the amount or release any additional details.