Ohio Man Arrested On Drug Charges

By John Larson

SOCORRO - Dudley W. Palmer, 75, of Hamilton, Ohio was arrested Thursday Mar. 4, on one charge of possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, and trafficking marijuana.
The arrest followed a traffic stop by New Mexico State Police officer Greg Valentino on Interstate 25, nineteen miles north of Socorro.
According to the criminal complaint, Palmer, driving a blue Chevy van with Ohio plates was pulled over by Valentino for going 90 miles an hour heading north.
Engaging Palmer in conversation, Valentino became suspicious of Palmer’s behavior and asked for – and received - written consent to search the van.
Inside the van, hidden in several makeshift compartments, were several parcels consistent with narcotics packing.
“The 41 bundles ranged in weight from two pounds, up to 23.6 pounds. The total weight of the 41 bundles was 271.2 pounds,” the complaint stated.
Depending on market variations, the marijuana is estimated to have a street value of between $250,000 to $300,000.
A cash surety bond was set at $26,500. Palmer bonded out the next day.
According to the criminal complaint, Palmer was carrying close to $4,000 at the time of his arrest.
He is scheduled to appear before Magistrate Judge Jim Naranjo Monday, Mar. 22 at 1 p.m.

Ohio Man Arrested On Drug Charges