February 17, 2025

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Once again, Arkansas State Police (ASP) saw a significant increase in illegal drug seizures during traffic stops compared to the previous year, due in large part to ASP’s Interstate Criminal Patrol (ICP), which specializes in drug interdiction.

Illegal marijuana seizures increased by approximately 50%, with more than 15,000 pounds confiscated in 2024, compared to just over 10,000 pounds in 2023. Cash seizures more than doubled, from $1.4 million in 2023 to $3.3 million in 2024. Methamphetamine seizures increased significantly from 56 pounds in 2023 to 509 pounds in 2024.

Cocaine seizures decreased from 353 pounds in 2023 to 254 pounds in 2024. Fentanyl seizures also decreased from 46 pounds to 6.9 pounds, comparing year-to-year data.

ICP confiscated 44 weapons in 2024, up from 21 in 2023.

Additional seizures in 2024 included:
• 89 pounds of THC wax
• 13,000 illegal prescription pills
• 105 pounds of Psilocybin mushrooms
• 201 bottles of Promethazine
• 3,719 THC vapes
• 20 vehicles

Also during 2024, ASP K9 teams had 187 deployments, resulting in the detection of:
• 4,915 pounds of illegal marijuana
• Over 17 pounds of cocaine
• 150 pounds of methamphetamine
• 914 pounds of other illegal narcotics
• $1.2 million in cash

“The dedication of the ASP’s ICP exemplifies a commitment to bolstering public safety and battling the influx of illegal drugs being trafficked throughout the state,” said ASP Director Colonel Mike Hagar. “We are delivering a powerful and unmistakable warning to anyone transporting illicit narcotics along our interstates and highways – We will catch you, and you will face the consequences.”