HALL COUNTY, Neb. — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a Thursday traffic stop.

At approximately 3:00 p.m., a trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol observed an eastbound Toyota 4Runner following another vehicle too closely on Interstate 80 near Wood River (three hours north of Salina), according to a media release.

During the traffic stop, the trooper discovered a meth pipe and a gram of methamphetamine on the driver’s person.

Troopers then searched the vehicle and found 68 pounds of marijuana hidden inside several large, gift-wrapped boxes. The driver stated the boxes were gifts for a new baby.

The driver, Joseph Hullinger, 56, of Santa Rosa, California, was arrested for possession of marijuana – more than one pound, possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp. Hullinger was lodged in Hall County Jail.