Last week, Alameda Police Department (APD) officers saw a vehicle run a stop sign near Buena Vista Avenue and Fifth Street and initiated a traffic stop that turned into a drug bust.

During the stop, the officers determined the driver was on probation and conducted a search of the vehicle in accordance with the driver’s probation terms, according to an APD report posted Tuesday, January 20, on Facebook.

The officers found more than four pounds of marijuana along with evidence indicating it was intended for sale, including a scale, cash, and a sales menu, the report stated. A photo posted on social media showed the confiscated items.

“APD officers will continue increased traffic enforcement efforts throughout the island to enhance public safety,” APD said. “We ask everyone to do their part and please follow traffic laws to help keep our roadways safe for all.”

Under California law it is not legal for anyone who is not a DCC-licensed retailer to sell marijuana, according to the state Department of Cannabis Control (DCC). Licensed retailers have strict rules that prevent sales to minors, ensure all products are tested, and ensure the amount of THC and CBD on the label is accurate, according to the DCC website.

Comments on the APD post showed a variety of opinions about the arrest. Many commenters thanked the officers for making the traffic stop. One person wrote, “I love that this was initiated by a traffic infraction. Huge kudos for busting all those making our streets any less safe. I guess I didn’t realize (a.) that anyone was still selling weed on the side now that it’s legal and readily available; and (b.) that we prosecute for possession even in large quantities. Either way, keep stopping dangerous drivers!”

Others also expressed the ongoing need for more traffic enforcement in town, while not being particularly concerned about marijuana. One commenter wrote, “Personally, I’d prefer if the officers we pay for would issue a ticket and move on so they could stop more drivers who are speeding, rolling though crosswalks, and other dangerous driving that we all see every day. This guy illegally selling a product that’s already available in stores is not a risk to my family and me, but reckless driving is.”

Another commenter responded: “Thank you for good old traffic enforcement. With 90% of drivers barely slowing down let alone not stopping, and tailgating other drivers through stop signs without stopping, we need more of this to enforce traffic safety. More pylons and painted lines won’t help. Catching crooks while you’re at it is just icing on the cake.”