A routine traffic stop in Tulsa has escalated into a federal criminal case after officers reportedly discovered a significant quantity of fentanyl and realized the driver had previously been deported from the country.
The incident began in January when Tulsa police pulled over 25-year-old Juan Lopez Olvera for a traffic violation. According to court documents, officers approached the vehicle and noted the smell of marijuana, prompting them to ask Lopez Olvera to exit the car.
A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered a large bag filled with a white powdery substance. Subsequent laboratory testing confirmed the powder was fentanyl.
Following the discovery, Lopez Olvera, a Mexican national, was taken into custody. During the booking process, authorities found that he had been deported as recently as February 2024 and had no legal record of returning to the United States.
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An unsealed criminal complaint now charges Lopez Olvera with possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute and unlawful reentry of a removed alien.
The investigation is currently being handled by Homeland Security Investigations, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris assigned to prosecute the case.
Officials remind the public that a criminal complaint is an allegation. Under the law, Lopez Olvera is presumed innocent until he is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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