Pot, edibles, and thousands in counterfeit cash seized in I-80 bust

Marijuana, THC products, and thousands in counterfeit cash were seized in a traffic stop that landed two people behind bars, according to the Nebraska State Patrol. 

The traffic stop occurred Friday afternoon on I-80 near Hershey when a trooper saw a speeding vehicle. 

A search of the vehicle turned up four pounds of marijuana, 51 THC edibles, and around $2,000 in cash, the patrol said. In addition, approximately $18,000 in counterfeit bills were found during the search, according to the patrol.

The driver, Lamecia Merchant, 41, and passenger, Lawrence Hawkins, 28, both of Green Bay, Wisconsin, were arrested for unlawful circulation of a financial transaction device, possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession of a controlled substance, no drug tax stamp, and possession of drug money. Both were lodged in Lincoln County Jail.