Police find 482 grams of pot, 5 guns during I-77 traffic stop

IREDELL COUNTY — On April 17 the Iredell County Sheriff's Office stopped a 1995 Cadillac for following too closely on Interstate 77.

According to a release from the Iredell County Sherriff's Office, deputies detected an overwhelming odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle during the stop. Deputies conducted a search based on the smell.

They found one cardboard box containing 18 glass mason jars with hydroponic marijuana, totaling 482 grams with a street value of almost $10,000.

Deputies arrested Antonio Martinez, 51, of Atlanta for possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana, felony possession of marijuana, maintaining a vehicle for controlled substance, carrying concealed weapons and possession of drug paraphernalia.
 
Deputies said upon further search they found three pistols, one shotgun, one SKS assault rifle and 1,000 rounds of ammunition concealed in the vehicle.

Deputies continued to search the vehicle and found equipment used to assist with an elaborate marijuana grow operation. The equipment included lights, extension cords, fans, liquid fertilizer, vent tubes and a portable tent used to house a marijuana grow operation.

They also seized $3,944 in cash and the Cadillac used to transport the illegal items.

Martinez was taken to the Iredell County Detention Center and is being held under $50,000 bond.

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