Salt Lake City, Utah – Two Minnesota residents are now facing serious federal drug trafficking charges after authorities say a routine traffic stop in central Utah led to the discovery of a massive quantity of methamphetamine.
Federal prosecutors allege that Guy Francis Bloomquist, 66, of Fridley, Minnesota, and Leslie Elisabeth Gordon, 45, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, were transporting approximately 150 pounds of methamphetamine when they were stopped by law enforcement along Interstate 15 in Millard County, Utah. Both individuals were taken into federal custody on Monday following a grand jury indictment.
Traffic Stop That Led to the Arrests
According to court documents, the incident began on October 19 when a Utah Highway Patrol trooper initiated a traffic stop after observing a window tint violation on a vehicle traveling southbound on Interstate 15.
During the stop, the trooper interacted with Bloomquist and Gordon and subsequently deployed a K-9 narcotics detection dog around the vehicle. Authorities say the dog alerted to the odor of illegal narcotics, providing probable cause for a search.
Large Drug Seizure Discovered
Following the K-9 alert, the trooper conducted a search of the vehicle. Investigators allege that the search uncovered 53 individual packages wrapped in plastic. The contents of those packages were later identified as methamphetamine, with a combined weight of approximately 150 pounds.
Law enforcement officials say the size of the seizure points to a major drug trafficking operation, rather than personal possession.
Both Bloomquist and Gordon were immediately taken into custody and transported to the Millard County Jail pending further legal proceedings.
Federal Charges Filed
A federal grand jury has formally indicted the two Minnesota residents on charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, a felony offense that carries severe penalties if convicted.
The case will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph M. Hood of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah. Prosecutors have confirmed that the investigation and charges fall under Operation Take Back America, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative.
What Is Operation Take Back America?
Operation Take Back America is a federal enforcement effort launched by the U.S. Department of Justice to strengthen coordination among federal, state, and local agencies. According to DOJ officials, the initiative aims to dismantle drug trafficking networks, eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and enhance community safety by targeting violent and large-scale criminal activity.
Authorities have emphasized that major drug seizures like this one are a key focus of the operation, as interstate drug routes remain a significant concern for law enforcement across the western United States.
Interstate 15 and Drug Trafficking Routes
Interstate 15 is known as a major north–south corridor connecting several western states, making it a frequent target for drug interdiction efforts. Law enforcement agencies routinely patrol the route for trafficking activity due to its strategic importance in transporting illegal narcotics across state lines.
Officials note that even minor traffic violations, such as equipment or tint infractions, often lead to significant criminal discoveries during lawful stops.
Legal Process Moving Forward
Bloomquist and Gordon remain in custody as their case proceeds through the federal court system. At this stage, the charges are allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
If convicted, possession with intent to distribute such a large quantity of methamphetamine can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term federal supervision.
Broader Impact on Community Safety
Federal officials continue to stress that large-scale drug trafficking poses risks beyond drug distribution itself, including increased violence, addiction, and strain on local communities. Seizures of this magnitude are viewed as a critical step in reducing the availability of dangerous narcotics on the street.
As the investigation continues, additional details may emerge regarding the origin and intended destination of the drugs.
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