Kingsville (KIII News) — A recent routine traffic stop just south of Kingsville ended up amounting to a significant bust.
Authorities said a search of the vehicle turned up half a million dollars in a hidden compartment.
It happened Dec. 6 along Highway 77, just outside Riviera, Texas. Deputies with the Jim Wells County Sheriff's Office initiated the bust, but since they had traveled into the neighboring Kleberg County, they first had to get approval from the sheriff's office there before making the stop.
They got permission and stopped the vehicle. That's when they made the massive bust -- $551,000, to be exact.
Authorities said the money was found in a hidden compartment and is linked to illegal activities.
Jim Wells County Sheriff Bueno and Kleberg County Sheriff Kirkpatrick were all smiles as they shook hands Monday, not only because of their effort to disrupt what they are calling a major organization, but also because they will eventually be able to split the forfeiture cash between the two agencies.
"The ability of two agencies to come together to work something up of this magnitude, and the fruits of that labor," Sheriff Kirkpatrick said. "Really pays off in the end when we are able to come together and work together."
They said that early Christmas present will be able to pay for things like new equipment for their deputies.
Authorities could not release the name of the driver or passenger in the vehicle because the case is still under investigation, but they hope their partnership will set a good example for other counties around the state.
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