A traffic stop in Kleberg County resulted in the seizure of more than $286,000 in U.S. currency after investigators reported discovering vacuum-sealed bundles of cash hidden inside a fast-food bag. The seizure was announced in a social media post by the Kleberg County Attorney’s Specialized Crimes and Narcotics Task Force. According to the agency, the stop occurred on March 4, 2025, at approximately 1:00 p.m. in Ricardo, Texas. Authorities described the discovery as another example of suspected illegal proceeds moving along South Texas highways.

The Traffic Stop

Investigators reported that Special Agent M. Galvan conducted the traffic stop and made contact with the vehicle’s sole driver. While speaking with the driver, Galvan allegedly observed several indicators that led him to suspect possible criminal activity. Officials stated those observations prompted investigators to escalate the stop and continue investigating the situation. The agency did not publicly specify what those indicators were, but said they led to additional investigative actions at the scene.

K-9 Involvment

Authorities said a K-9 unit was deployed during the stop to assist investigators. According to the task force, K-9 “Bax” alerted to the vehicle, which investigators said indicated the presence of narcotics odor. The alert provided agents with probable cause to conduct a search of the vehicle. During that search, agents reported discovering a McDonald’s “Happy Meal” bag containing clear vacuum-sealed packages filled with U.S. currency.

Agents Discover Bundled Cash

Investigators said the currency was packaged inside multiple vacuum-sealed bags before being placed inside the fast-food bag. After counting the money, authorities reported the total amount seized was $286,202. Officials also said a counterfeit $50 bill was discovered among the bundles of legitimate currency during the counting process. Images released by the task force appeared to show stacks of vacuum-sealed cash displayed after the seizure.

Investigators Cite Suspected Cross-Border Criminal Activity

According to the task force, investigators believe the currency was destined for criminal organizations operating in Mexico. Authorities said the seizure occurred roughly one week after another major currency case handled by the task force. Officials described the discovery as part of ongoing interdiction efforts targeting the movement of suspected illegal proceeds traveling south along South Texas highways.

Authorities did not release the identity of the driver involved in the traffic stop. It also was not immediately clear whether criminal charges had been filed in connection with the seizure. 

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