A Nebraska State Patrol traffic stop last week led to two arrests related to drugs. It began around 1:00 am on Friday January 6, 2023 as a trooper stopped a westbound vehicle for speeding on Interstate 80 about two miles east of Cozad. A Dawson County service dog detected the odor of narcotics in the pickup. A search of the vehicle led to the seizure of Methamphetamine, Ecstasy, a knife and $19, 850 in cash.
It led to the arrest of 42-year-old Benjamin Hines, who has been charged in Dawson County Court with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute in the amount of 28 grams to 140 grams, Possession of a Deadly Weapon by a Prohibited Person, Possession of Ecstasy and Possession of Drug Money. Hines’ bond was set at 10% of $500,000 and set for preliminary hearing on January 17, 2023 at 11:00am.
Hines’ passenger, 36-year-old Jennifer Hartwig, was also arrested and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Her bond was set at 10% of $10,000 and preliminary hearing was also set for January 17, 2023 at 11:00am. Both are from Anamosa, IA. The Nebraska State Patrol is continuing their investigation.