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Hillsborough County, FL - A routine traffic stop in Hillsborough County uncovered a mobile marijuana farm inside a U-Haul truck, leading to the seizure of drugs and a firearm.
On Tuesday, deputies from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) pulled over a U-Haul truck for allegedly impeding traffic on I-275.
The truck, driven by 32-year-old Steven Robinson and accompanied by 32-year-old Candice Slater, initially appeared to be transporting furniture.
However, deputies reported a strong odor that suggested something was amiss.
Upon inspection, authorities found over a dozen marijuana plants along with equipment typically used for growing marijuana, such as oscillating fans, ventilation systems, and fertilizers.
Deputies also discovered 47 pounds of processed marijuana, 89 pounds of magic mushrooms, and a 9mm pistol in the cargo area.
Slater and Robinson were both arrested and booked on several charges.
Slater faces charges of leasing a property for trafficking a controlled substance, possession of cannabis with intent to sell, and trafficking cannabis.
Robinson is charged with the same offenses, in addition to possessing a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The investigation is ongoing, and both suspects are alleged to have been involved in a trafficking operation.
Deputies are continuing to investigate the operation, which could have far-reaching implications for drug distribution in the region.