Two Pennsylvanians held in Nebraska marijuana case

Authorities say two Pennsylvania men have been arrested and 127 pounds of marijuana has been seized along Interstate 80 in the Nebraska Panhandle.

The Nebraska State Patrol says the two were taken into custody just off the Sidney exit on Thursday evening.

The patrol says a trooper reported smelling marijuana when he was checking on a sport utility vehicle that had stopped. The patrol says the pot, a pound of hashish and a small amount of cocaine were found during a search of the SUV.

Troopers arrested 23-year-old Kenneth Turner, of Pittsburgh, Pa., and his passenger, 30-year-old Gabriel Nowak, of Finleyville, Pa.

The trooper originally approached the vehicle after spotting it improperly parked along the Interstate, just off the mile marker 48 exit. He then noticed the driver relieving himself. As he drew close to the vehicle, he noticed the odor of marijuana.

A probable cause search led to the discovery of three large bags, located in the cargo bay of the SUV.

Both men remained in Cheyenne County Jail on Friday. Turner is charged with public urination, in addition to possession with intent to deliver. Nowak is charged with possession with intent to deliver.

Online court records don't list the names of their attorneys. The Associated Press and Nebraska State Patrol releases contributed to this report.