A routine traffic stop resulted in the seizure of hundreds of pounds of marijuana by the New Mexico State Police.

At approximately 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 4, State Police Patrolman Greg Valentino initiated the stop on a 2005 Chevrolet Express conversion van that was speeding in the northbound lanes on I-25, near Mile Marker 169, close the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge.

Dudley Palmer, 75, of Hamilton, Ohio, was arrested and charged on three counts: possession of marijuana (possession of marijuana with intent to distribute more than 100 pounds is a third-degree felony); possession of marijuana (8 ounces or more is a fourth-degree felony); and possession of drug paraphernalia (misdemeanor).

"We seized approximately 271 pounds of marijuana," Valentino said.

The patrolman went on to say that the street value on the confiscated drugs is estimated to be around $270,000.

Palmer also had about $4,000 in cash at the time of his arrest. He was released after posting 10 percent of the $26,500 cash or surety bond on March 5, and is scheduled to make his first appearance on Monday, March 22, in Magistrate Court.

Contact Jackie Schlotfeldt