Wellton, AZ — On January 21st, at approximately 10:09 a.m., a trooper assigned to the Canine District Drug Enforcement Bureau conducted a traffic stop on a white 2011 BMW X5 traveling eastbound on Interstate 8 near milepost 21 for multiple moving violations.

During the course of the stop, the trooper observed indicators of criminal activity. A subsequent consent search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of 167.55 pounds of methamphetamine concealed within a false floor compartment.

The suspect, 26-year-old Alex Peres of Baja California, Mexico was taken into custody and booked  into the Yuma Federal Detention Facility for possession of and transportation of dangerous drugs for sale. 

The investigation was supported by District Four Highway Patrol and the Yuma Narcotics Squad. This seizure represents a significant disruption to illegal drug trafficking and highlights the effectiveness of proactive traffic enforcement and interagency cooperation.

Incident Number: I26004262

Casa Grande, AZ — On January 17, 2026, A trooper assigned to Highway Patrol District Six (Casa Grande) conducted a traffic stop on a white Chevrolet Tahoe, near westbound Interstate 10 at milepost 200 (Sunland Gin Rd.) in Casa Grande for an equipment violation.

During the traffic stop, the trooper asked for assistance from a Drug Enforcement Bureau, Southern Canine District trooper to respond. The troopers observed indicators consistent with criminal activity, and the canine trooper conducted a consent search of the Tahoe. During the search, approximately 40.5 pounds of cocaine were discovered, concealed within a hidden compartment in the vehicle’s center console.

AZDPS Detectives from the Pinal Narcotics Squad responded to assist with the investigation.

As a result of the investigation, one subject was arrested and booked into the Pinal County Jail:

• Name: Francisco Javier Mascarenas
• City of Residence: Rio Rico, AZ
• Age: 38
• Report Number: I26003610
   

Charges include:

• Transportation of Narcotic Drugs for Sale
• Possession of Narcotic Drugs for Sale

This seizure represents a significant disruption to the illegal drug supply and underscores the ongoing commitment of AZDPS to keeping Arizona’s communities safe.