Big Marijuana Haul near Lindale

SMITH COUNTY � The Texas Department of Public Safety has the seized nearly 240 pounds of marijuana near Lindale. According to KETK, while patrolling on Interstate 20 in Smith County Friday, a trooper stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. Based on information obtained during the traffic stop, the trooper claims to have noted several discrepancies in the information being given. According to authorities, the trooper asked for consent to search the vehicle, and the search of the rented SUV led to the discovery of approximately 240 pounds of marijuana, valued at $1.2 million, hidden in several duffel bags.

Both the driver, 33-year-old Joseph Bridges, and his passenger, 41-year-old Kristina Watts, who were traveling from California to Florida, were arrested for possession of marijuana, a second degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in jail and a fine not to exceed $10,000. The suspects were booked into the Smith County Jail on $75,000 bond each.