$286K in Suspected Cartel Cash Seized During Traffic Stop in Ricardo
Kleberg County Attorney's Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force
RICARDO, TEXAS (News Release) - A routine traffic stop in Ricardo led to the seizure of more than $286,000 in suspected criminal proceeds Wednesday afternoon, according to authorities.
Photo courtesy of Kleberg County Attorney's Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force.
On March 4, 2025, at approximately 1 p.m., Special Agent M. Galvan conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling through Ricardo. While speaking with the sole occupant and driver, Galvan observed several indicators he believed were consistent with criminal activity.
K-9 Agent Bax was deployed to conduct a free-air sniff around the vehicle and alerted positively, signaling the presence of narcotics odor.
During a subsequent search of the vehicle, agents located a McDonald’s bag containing multiple clear, vacuum-sealed packages filled with U.S. currency. Authorities later determined the cash was suspected to be proceeds from criminal activity.
In total, agents seized $286,202. While counting the money, investigators also discovered a counterfeit $50 bill mixed in with the bundled currency.
Officials said the cash was destined for criminal organizations in Mexico. The seizure occurred exactly one week after the Task Force’s previous major currency interdiction, underscoring what authorities describe as a steady flow of illicit proceeds moving southbound along South Texas highways.
The Task Force stated it will continue efforts to intercept illegal proceeds and disrupt criminal operations operating in the region.
