More than likely they already had a tip of some kind.

victorianbybirth:
What were the "signs" of criminal activity? - “Victor M. Villagomez, 43, of Pharr”

I asked what the "signs of criminal activity" were. That comment is very vague.

It was clarified. Read the corrections section and even the reporter herself posted a message about the correction.

What were the "signs" of criminal activity?

Gobblerfan2, it clearly states he was handcuffed & guarded in a ditch while they searched his vehicle. I assume that means he consented to the search & they handcuffed him & then searched & then located. If that is not how it happened then the story needs to be clarified.

I was the reporter on the scene of the arrest. When the trooper stopped Victor M. Villagomez he found signs of criminal activity and Villagomez consented to a search of his vehicle. The troopers then located 63 pounds of marijuana. The man was then arrested and stood as troopers continued to search the vehicle.

He was handcuffed AFTER the contraband was found. The suspect was not arrested until the contraband was located.

If you folks think these idiots are cruising down 77 and 59 going 55mph with all lights, blinkers, equipment working properly you had better think again. Yes, I think some may be ratted out before they get here but most are stupid criminals that are getting stopped with a load of dope or smuggling humans and can't resist speeding.

What a way to spend you Birthday!

A traffic violation is what it is. Handcuffs are legal for the safety of the officer. ON THE FLIP SIDE, California is about to make it all legal anyway.

Absolutely, Zorro! The reports by Victoria Police Department no longer say anything beyond "traffic violation".
Law inforcement answers to no one!

He was being detained, for the safety of himself and the officers. Learn to get a real job and earn an honest living.

Why would they handcuff him? Was he trying to flee? There is no justification for handcuffing when no crime has been committed.

Does anybody really believe he was pulled over for a traffic violation? Somebody ought to be pulled over and arrested for privacy violation.

handcuffed doesnt mean you are definetely under arrest at that point he was just being detained during the search

Why did they handcuff him BEFORE the search & BEFORE they found anything? If they had found nothing then what? How is that even legal?

Happy Birthday Victor enjoy your jailhouse cake!

does it really matter that it was his birthday Tuesday??? I mean really??