A months-long investigation into Michael Linan of Livingston for the distribution of methamphetamine within Polk County has been underway by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division.
The investigation recently culminated when narcotics detectives conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle observed leaving Linan’s residence in the Putnam’s Landing subdivision for a violation of the Texas Transportation Code. During the stop, the driver, Kevin Wangler of Trinity, was found to be in possession of approximately two ounces of methamphetamine.
Based on information developed during the investigation and evidence obtained during the traffic stop, a search warrant for Linan’s residence was prepared and presented to 411th District Judge John Wells, who found probable cause and signed the warrant.
The Polk County Narcotics Division and Criminal Investigation Division, again assisted by DPS CID, executed the search warrant. During the search, Joe Escobedo III was located inside the garage and found to be in possession of approximately seven grams of methamphetamine.
Inside the residence, Nicole Keeley was located in proximity to a large quantity of methamphetamine, a substantial quantity of psilocybin mushrooms, digital scales commonly used to weigh narcotics, and packaging materials consistent with distribution. Detectives said the quantities and paraphernalia located are indicative of narcotics trafficking rather than personal use.
Linan was not present at the time of the search. Felony arrest warrants for manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance Penalty Group 1 and Penalty Group 2 have been issued and are currently active.
Linan was previously arrested for the sale of methamphetamine from this same residence. Due to the continued distribution of narcotics from the property and the negative impact on surrounding residents and the neighborhood, seizure paperwork will be filed with the Polk County District Attorney’s Office to initiate forfeiture proceedings on the property pursuant to Texas law.
“Our narcotics investigators put in months of focused, deliberate work to dismantle this operation. Drug distribution in our neighborhoods will not be tolerated. When individuals choose to turn their homes into distribution points for illegal narcotics, they should fully expect that we will pursue not only criminal charges, but also the seizure of any property used to facilitate that activity,” Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said.
Chief Deputy Anthony Lowrie added, “This case reflects the commitment and professionalism of our narcotics division and our partnership with DPS CID. We will continue to aggressively target those who profit from the sale of illegal drugs in Polk County. Any property tied to illegal drug trafficking will be identified, documented, and submitted for seizure under state forfeiture statutes.”
A spokesperson for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office said the department remains committed to protecting the citizens of Polk County by identifying, investigating, and dismantling narcotics distribution networks operating within the community.
