Two Men Arrested After $68,800 in Suspected Criminal Proceeds Seized During South Texas Traffic Stop

KINGSVILLE, Texas — Two Rio Grande Valley men were arrested after authorities seized nearly $69,000 in suspected criminal proceeds during a traffic stop in Kingsville.

According to the South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force, special agents were working Operation Stonegarden on June 24 when they conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Kingsville.

Investigators said the vehicle was occupied by two adult men from the Rio Grande Valley.

During the stop, agents observed multiple indicators they believed were consistent with criminal activity. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of eight cellophane-wrapped bundles of U.S. currency concealed inside the dashboard.

Authorities said the bundles contained a total of $68,800 in cash.

Following the investigation, agents determined the money had allegedly been obtained through illicit criminal activity and was being transported toward the U.S.-Mexico border.

Both occupants were arrested and booked into the Kleberg County Jail, where they are facing charges related to the investigation. Authorities have not yet released their identities or the specific charges.

Officials noted that disrupting the movement of illicit cash is a key strategy in targeting criminal organizations, as the proceeds are often used to finance future drug trafficking, purchase weapons, and support other illegal operations.

The South Texas Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force said it remains committed to identifying, investigating, and dismantling criminal organizations operating throughout South Texas.

The investigation remains ongoing.