BEAVER, Utah — A routine traffic stop on Interstate 15 in Beaver County led to the discovery of a significant drug cache, resulting in the arrest of one woman on drug-related charges and suspicion of immigration violations.
The incident unfolded Monday when a Utah Highway Patrol trooper stopped a vehicle traveling northbound just outside Beaver for having an expired registration. The driver, later identified as 31-year-old Stefany Freites Aular, informed the trooper that the vehicle was uninsured. However, during the interaction, the officer noticed inconsistencies in the driver’s travel story, prompting further suspicion.
According to a probable cause affidavit, the trooper requested consent to search the vehicle, which was granted by both Aular and her passenger. The search revealed 4 kilograms of cocaine and a significant quantity of methamphetamines, with the total methamphetamine weight being compared to common household items like a microwave, a bag of potatoes, or even the weight of a 3-year-old child.
In addition to the drugs, the search uncovered fraudulent Social Security and immigration documents. A photograph shared by the Utah Highway Patrol showed the drugs laid out on the hood of a patrol vehicle, alongside a microwave — though the presence of the appliance was not explained, it is typically around 30 pounds, the same approximate weight as the methamphetamine seized.
Aular was arrested and booked into the Beaver County Jail on suspicion of second-degree felony possession with intent to distribute, as well as felony possession of fraudulent documents. Authorities also noted that both Aular and her passenger are suspected to be illegal aliens, prompting an immigration hold to be placed on them.
While the report did not specify which individual was the driver and which was the passenger, it was clear that the trooper believed both suspects might fail to appear for future court proceedings. An immigration hold was requested by the Beaver County Jail to ensure their appearance.
The investigation into the case continues as law enforcement agencies work to address both the drug-related charges and potential immigration violations.