Troopers locate over 400 lbs. of marijuana located inside ATMs, safe

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. -- A Florida man was arrested Friday after troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol discovered more than 400 pounds of marijuana hidden inside
ATMs, a safe, and a tote during a traffic stop.

During a press release issued Monday, NSP officials said a trooper observed a Mercedes Sprinter Van fail to signal a turn while exiting I-80 near the Giltner Interchange at mile marker 324.

The release stated that an NSP K9 then detected the presence of a controlled substance in the vehicle during the ensuing traffic stop.

Troopers searched the vehicle, at which point they said they located a large plastic tote containing packages of marijuana. There were also 14 ATMs and a large safe inside the van.

With the assistance of the Grand Island Fire Department, all 14 ATMs and the safe were opened, revealing packages of marijuana.

According to the NSP's press release, the total weight of the marijuana was 426 lbs. Troopers also noted that they found approximately $9,000 in a duffel bag in the front seat of the van.

The driver, 36-year-old Gilbert Fernandez, was arrested on multiple drug charges and lodged in Hamilton County Jail.