Narcotics Detectives Bust Cannabis Traffickers on I-88 in Illinois

Two Iowa men arrested with 11 lbs of cannabis and a loaded gun during traffic stop

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:08pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a small plastic bag filled with dried cannabis buds, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A narcotics bust on I-88 in Illinois uncovers a large quantity of illegal cannabis and a loaded firearm, underscoring the ongoing challenges of drug trafficking across state lines.DeKalb Today

Narcotics detectives in DeKalb County, Illinois arrested two Iowa men, Lane Michael Geerdes and Stone Reginald Wasekuk, during a traffic stop on I-88 on Friday. Geerdes was allegedly transporting 11 lbs of cannabis, while Wasekuk had a loaded gun. Both men were charged with cannabis trafficking and other related offenses.

Why it matters

This bust highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to crack down on illegal drug trafficking, especially along major interstate highways. The seizure of a large quantity of cannabis and a firearm also raises concerns about the potential for violence associated with these types of operations.

The details

According to the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office, narcotics detectives stopped Geerdes, 22, of Guernsey, Iowa, at mile marker 80 on I-88 around 4:20 p.m. on Friday. Wasekuk, 20, of Montour, Iowa, was a passenger in Geerdes' vehicle and was found to be in possession of a loaded gun. Both men were arrested and taken to the DeKalb County Jail.

  • The traffic stop occurred on Friday, April 11, 2026 around 4:20 p.m.

The players

Lane Michael Geerdes

A 22-year-old man from Guernsey, Iowa who was arrested and charged with cannabis trafficking, unlawful possession with intent to deliver, and unlawful possession of cannabis.

Stone Reginald Wasekuk

A 20-year-old man from Montour, Iowa who was the passenger in Geerdes' vehicle and was arrested and charged with armed violence, cannabis trafficking, unlawful possession of cannabis with intent to deliver, and unlawful possession of cannabis.

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What’s next

The two men are scheduled to appear in court at a future date to face the charges against them.

The takeaway

This bust on I-88 demonstrates the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to disrupt the illegal drug trade, especially the trafficking of cannabis and other narcotics across state lines. The discovery of a loaded firearm also raises concerns about the potential for violence associated with these types of operations.