In recent days, the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office announced another case of a routine traffic stop turning into a major bust for the Gore Range Narcotic Interdiction Team Task Force (GRANITE).

According to the report about the situation, the traffic stop involved the driver of a pick-up truck getting pulled over for allegedly violating multiple traffic laws while traveling along I-70 on February 18. Once the vehicle of the 26-year-old suspect out of Aurora was stopped, it was discovered that two children respectively aged six years and four months were also in the vehicle, with one child reported to be not properly restrained.

While interacting with the driver, the deputy involved suspected additional criminal activity. The deputy issued a warning for speeding and addressed the unrestrained child before requesting to search the vehicle. Noticing additional signs of potential illegal activity, a narcotics-certified K9 unit was called to the scene.

Once at the scene, the K9 unit reportedly alerted to the presence of narcotics, which established the probable cause that was needed in order to legally conduct a full search, according to the sheriff’s office report.

The full search reportedly uncovered more than 31 pounds of a substance that tested presumptive positive for cocaine with indications it may contain fentanyl, as well. Based on a report from the Department of Justice, the retail value of drugs involved in the bust could range from between $993,000 to $1.77 million. In addition to the substance that tested presumptive positive as cocaine, $25,709 was also seized under the belief that this money came from drug transactions.

“We are incredibly proud of our G.R.A.N.I.T.E. Task Force and their unwavering dedication to protecting Eagle County from the dangers of narcotics,” read a statement from the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office. “Their vigilance, expertise, and teamwork play a critical role in disrupting the flow of illicit drugs, ensuring our community remains a safe place for all.”

All suspects are to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.