Richland, N.Y. — Over 200 pounds of marijuana were found stashed in an SUV during a traffic stop this week on Interstate 81.

The incident started at 12:47 p.m. Wednesday when Oswego County sheriff’s deputies pulled over a 2020 GMC Yukon on I-81 south in Richland. The driver of the SUV was speeding, deputies said, and following another car too closely.

About 224 pounds of marijuana and $2,000 were later found in the Yukon, deputies said

Two people were arrested:

• Amber Johnson, 37, of LaFayette — the driver of the SUV — was charged with first-degree criminal possession of marijuana. She was also ticketed for speeding, following too closely and third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.
• Keri Bucktooth, 39, of Nedrow — the passenger — was charged with first-degree criminal possession of marijuana.

Johnson and Bucktooth were arraigned and released from custody.

Deputies are still investigating.

Staff writer Samantha House covers breaking news, crime and public safety for syracuse.com | The Post-Standard. Have a tip or a story idea? Contact her at shouse@syracuse.com.