Traffic stop in Concord leads to seizure of nearly 100 pounds of meth

On August 29, California Highway Patrol officers conducted a traffic stop on a white GMC van near Interstate 680 and Marina Vista Road in Concord. The stop was initiated due to an alleged moving violation. During the encounter, the officer suspected the driver, 47-year-old Magdaleno Quezada Garcia, of engaging in further criminal activity. This prompted the deployment of a canine unit, which alerted to the presence of drugs in the vehicle. Upon searching the van, officers discovered nearly 100 pounds of methamphetamine concealed in numerous bags. The significant quantity of drugs indicated a potential operation involving distribution rather than personal use. Following the discovery, Garcia was detained and subsequently arrested. Garcia faces multiple felony charges, including possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine for sale, and transportation of methamphetamine for sale. His arrest highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in the region. Currently, Garcia is being held at the Martinez Detention Facility with bail set at $2.5 million. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 24, where he will face the charges brought against him. This incident underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing drug-related crimes and the importance of proactive measures in traffic enforcement to uncover larger criminal activities.