Gaston County Police seized over $500,000 in cash from a tractor-trailer on I-85 near exit 14 on February 3, 2026, during a traffic stop for following too closely. The driver’s nervousness prompted a K-9 sniff that alerted to drugs, leading to an hours-long search revealing bundled cash hidden in pallets, though no drugs were found.
Incident Details
Captain Jeff Phelps called it one of the department’s largest seizures ever, linking the cash to drug trade due to its scent and packaging, common in trafficking and money laundering. The driver cooperated but provided little info and faced no charges, as police believe he was unaware of the load. Interstate 85’s heavy truck traffic makes it a hotspot for such concealment.
Police Statement
The department emphasized its commitment to proactive investigations against drugs and crime via K-9 and Special Investigations Units. This multi-agency effort aims to enhance community safety in Gaston County, North Carolina. The case remains under investigation.
