The Colorado County Sheriff’s Office reported that on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at approximately 12:24 p.m., Investigator Tyler Pavlicek conducted a traffic stop along Interstate 10. Pavlicek is assigned to the agency’s Criminal Interdiction Unit, which focuses on identifying potential criminal activity along major travel corridors. Authorities stated the stop occurred near the 695-mile marker after an alleged traffic violation was observed involving a Kia sport-utility vehicle traveling eastbound.

Occupants Identified During Investigation

According to information released by the sheriff’s office, the driver of the vehicle was identified as Christopher Rivas, 29, of Spring, Texas. Two passengers were also present in the vehicle and were identified as John Rivas, 30, of Katy, Texas, and Gabriella Cervantes, 27, also of Spring. Law enforcement officials said all three individuals remained on scene while the initial investigation and questioning were conducted following the traffic stop.

Consent Refused, K9 Requested to Scene

Investigators reported that consent to search the vehicle was requested but ultimately declined by the occupants. Following that refusal, assistance was requested from Deputy O. Buitron of the Austin County Sheriff’s Office, who responded to the location with a trained K9 identified as Knox. Authorities stated the K9 performed an exterior sniff of the vehicle and indicated a positive alert, which provided probable cause for a subsequent search under law-enforcement procedures.

Currency and THC Device Located

During the search that followed the K9 alert, investigators reported discovering multiple plastic bags containing U.S. currency bundled with rubber bands. Authorities also stated that a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) vaping device was located inside the vehicle during the investigation. The total amount of currency seized during the stop was reported to be $31,513, according to the sheriff’s office statement.

Arrest Allegations and Legal Status

Law enforcement officials said all three occupants were taken into custody on allegations of possession of a controlled substance and money laundering.

All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Interagency Cooperation Highlighted

The Colorado County Sheriff’s Office publicly acknowledged the assistance provided by the Austin County Sheriff’s Office during the incident. Officials specifically noted the role of Deputy Buitron and K9 Knox in supporting the roadside investigation and search process. Both agencies stated they remain committed to collaborative enforcement efforts and to promoting public safety across the region’s shared transportation corridors.

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