Chicago Man Flew to O’Hare with $200K+ Cannabis from California

Sacramento Man Arrested in Chicago with Over $260,000 Worth of Cannabis

A major drug bust unfolded at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport when 26-year-old Rhashad Barnes from Sacramento was apprehended with over $260,000 worth of cannabis. The Sacramento Sheriff’s Department had previously alerted Chicago police with photos of Barnes and two suitcases suspected to contain illegal substances.

Flight and Discovery

Barnes was on United Flight 2207, traveling from Sacramento to Chicago, when he was intercepted by law enforcement. Upon arriving at O’Hare, he was met by officers at baggage claim three. The two suitcases he carried contained 41 heat-sealed packages of a green leafy substance, which, according to police reports, weighed a total of 18,614 grams. The estimated street value of the cannabis was $269,024.

Confession and Charges

As Barnes collected his luggage, officers detained him for questioning. When asked about the contents of his bags, Barnes initially downplayed the situation, stating that the bags, which bore his name, contained “a little weed.” Despite his attempt to minimize the situation, the scale of the seizure was significant.

Barnes was subsequently arrested and charged with intent to manufacture or deliver more than 5,000 grams of cannabis. This charge reflects the large quantity of the substance found in his possession, a clear violation of state drug laws.

Court Appearance Scheduled

Rhashad Barnes is scheduled to appear in court on September 4. The case has drawn considerable attention due to the substantial amount of cannabis involved and the cross-country flight used to transport it.

The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and underscores the risks associated with transporting large quantities of illegal substances across state lines.