Ventura woman arrested after drugs found in dog supplies

A 63-year-old Ventura woman was arrested on felony drug charges after narcotics were found hidden among dog supplies in her car, according to the Ventura County Sheriff's Office.

The arrest occurred around 3:45 p.m. Tuesday in the 700 block of East Thompson Boulevard.

Deputies had previously received information about Karen Hernandez, 63, of Ventura, being involved in narcotics sales within the county. Hernandez was pulled over during a traffic stop, during which she appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance, according to authorities.

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A search of the suspect's vehicle revealed a small dog named Gracie, as well as dog supplies, chew toys and dog food. Hidden among the dog supplies were two pounds of methamphetamine, a quarter-pound of cocaine, a quarter-pound of heroin, rock cocaine and cash indicative of narcotics sales, authorities said. Deputies later confirmed Gracie had not consumed any of the narcotics within the vehicle and released the dog to a responsible party.

Hernandez was arrested on suspicion of felony possession of a controlled substance for sale, felony transportation of a controlled substance and misdemeanor being under the influence of a controlled substance. She was booked into county jail and remains in custody in lieu of $50,000 bail.

Jeremy Childs is a breaking news and public safety reporter covering the night shift for the Ventura County Star. He can be reached by calling 805-437-0208 or emailing jeremy.childs@vcstar.com. You can also find him on Twitter @Jeremy_Childs.