Traffic stop leads to an arrest and seizure of marijuana

On Sunday, October 19, 2014, at approximately 10pm, a Nolan County deputy initiated a traffic stop at mile-marker 245 of IH-20. Upon contact with the driver, Joe Garcia, Jr., of Fort Worth who was accompanied by passenger, Jose Efrin Gamboa, of Fort Worth, the deputy immediately discovered items justifying a “probable cause” search. Both men were requested to exit the vehicle where an investigation could be conducted. The deputy then notified another deputy in the area for backup, and after her arrival, a search of the vehicle was conducted which lead to the discovery of suspected marijuana, concealed in a plastic container under the seat. Upon further inspection of the vehicle, a clear plastic baggy containing suspected marijuana was discovered, concealed in the center console. Both men were arrested and transported to the Nolan County jail where they were charged with the misdemeanor offense of possession of marijuana. The case will be filed with the Nolan County Attorney for prosecution.