Two alleged drug traffickers were arrested after the county’s special investigations group found them with over half a kilogram of cocaine on Interstate 94 near Lincolnshire.
Members of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Group (SIG) conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 94 near Route 22 in Lincolnshire around 6:20 p.m. Wednesday, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Chief Christopher Covelli.
Lake County Sheriff’s Deputy Dwight Arrowood and his canine partner Duke assisted on the stop, which was initiated due to the vehicle allegedly speeding 20 mph over the limit.
Covelli said Duke conducted a free-air sniff around the vehicle’s exterior and alerted to the presence of narcotics.
A search of the vehicle uncovered over half a kilogram — approximately 578.5 grams — of powder cocaine, Covelli said.
The driver, identified as Melissa M. Coquillard, 33, of Hampshire, and the passenger, Martin Gonzalez, 36, of South Elgin, were arrested and transported to the Lake County Jail.
The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office reviewed the case and approved charges of manufacturing or delivery of 400-900 grams of cocaine, a Class X felony, and possession of cocaine, a Class 1 felony, against Coquillard and Gonzalez.
Coquillard was additionally cited for speeding 21-25 mph over the limit.
“This case demonstrates the effectiveness of our specialized teams, including our K9 Unit, in intercepting dangerous drugs before they reach our communities. I commend the collaborative efforts of our deputies and our Special Investigations Group for their dedication to keeping Lake County safe,” Lake County Sheriff John D. Idleburg said.
“Drug traffickers pose a serious threat, and we will continue to aggressively pursue those who bring these substances into our community,” Idleburg said.
The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office filed petitions to detain both Gonzalez and Coquillard in custody pending trial.
Both are set to appear for detention hearings on Friday afternoon.