A routine traffic stop in Emery County, Utah, led to the arrest of a man found in possession of a significant quantity of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of over $5 million. Steven Brian Esquivias, a 26-year-old resident of California, was taken into custody on charges of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, a second-degree felony, as well as for speeding at a rate exceeding 100 mph.
The incident occurred on February 18 when a Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) trooper observed a white Toyota Corolla traveling at an excessive speed of 101 mph in an 80 mph zone along I-70. The trooper promptly initiated a traffic stop and discovered Esquivias as the sole occupant of the vehicle. During the stop, the trooper noticed two tote bags in the back seat, each labeled with numbers.
Further investigation revealed that Esquivias was driving a rented car, although he claimed a friend had rented it on his behalf. Notably, Esquivias did not possess a renter’s contract. Due to suspicions of criminal activity, the trooper requested Esquivias to accompany them to the patrol car. At this point, Esquivias displayed signs of extreme nervousness, including heavy breathing that suggested he was on the verge of hyperventilating.
With Esquivias’ consent, the trooper conducted a search of the vehicle, leading to the discovery of four large totes filled with a white crystal substance. Subsequent testing confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine, weighing a total of 260 pounds. Law enforcement estimates the street value of this quantity of methamphetamine to be between $5 and $7.5 million.
Following the discovery, Esquivias was taken into custody and booked into Emery County Jail on charges of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and speeding. The case has since been transferred to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.
