Law agencies team up for drug bust

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Multiple law enforcement agencies executed a search warrant at a residence located off Painters Drive in the Big Thicket Subdivision March 31, the result of a prolonged investigation into the distribution of controlled substances.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division, in coordination with the Criminal Investigation Division and Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, identified a residence belonging to Christopher Lee Guzman, a registered sex offender, and Midge Armer.

During execution of the search warrant, investigators located and seized approximately 11 ounces of methamphetamine, multiple firearms, and a substantial amount of U.S. currency. A records check through dispatch confirmed that one of the recovered firearms had been reported stolen through the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

“This case is the result of extensive and deliberate work by our Narcotics Detectives, working in close partnership with the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division,” Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said. “We are grateful for that collaboration and remain committed to aggressively targeting those responsible for distributing illegal narcotics in our communities.”

Guzman was arrested and charged with manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance and theft of a firearm. He was found to be in possession of approximately 178 grams of methamphetamine.

Armer was arrested and charged with manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance. She was found to be in possession of approximately 150 grams of methamphetamine.

Detectives confirmed that the residence is located within 1,000 feet of a designated school bus stop, where children regularly load and unload. As a result, the offenses are subject to enhancement under Texas Drug-Free Zone statutes.

Due to the quantity of narcotics recovered and the evidence indicating distribution activity, asset forfeiture proceedings will be initiated to seize property to include the residence and land on which it sits, and proceeds believed to be connected to narcotics trafficking.

This investigation remains active, and additional charges are anticipated.

“We will continue to pursue and seize profits derived from narcotics distribution and will seek enhanced penalties whenever these offenses occur in close proximity to schools or designated school bus stops,” Polk County Chief Deputy Andy Lowrie said. “The safety of our children remains a top priority, and we will take decisive action to protect them.”

Hunting lease burglarized

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating a burglary occurring March 17, on Bluewater Road.

During the investigation, it was determined that three individuals unlawfully entered a private hunting lease property. The suspects include Dalton Wayne Brown, of Livingston; Cory Matthew Wagers, of Cleveland; and Justin Nelson Horton.

The suspects trespassed onto the property and proceeded to break into multiple structures. A camper trailer and four-wheeler were reported stolen.

Through investigative efforts, deputies were able to recover the stolen property. As a result of the investigation, two of the three suspects have been taken into custody. Those arrested face charges of burglary of a habitation, theft of property (two counts), criminal trespass of a habitation (two counts), criminal trespass, criminal mischief, and engaging in organized criminal activity.

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office thanked the local Texas Game Wardens and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the investigation.

Warrants have been obtained and are currently active for Horton, who is still outstanding at this time.

Those with information regarding the whereabouts of Justin Nelson Horton or information to this case are asked to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 936-327-6810. An anonymous tip may be submitted at p3tips.com, the P3 App, or by calling Polk County Crime Stoppers at 936-327-STOP, where information can remain anonymous and a cash reward could be collected for information leading to an arrest.

Burglary at Kinder Morgan

A burglary occurred at the Kinder Morgan Plant March 21, located on FM 2665 in the Goodrich area. A small utility trailer along with several power tools and other items were stolen.

The suspect’s vehicle is possibly a black Dodge pickup with amber cab lights, chrome tow mirrors, chrome steps, a larger aftermarket front bumper, and bright white aftermarket running lights and headlights.

Those with information are asked to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s Office at 936-327-6810 and reference Case# S2600372. An anonymous tip may be submitted at p3tips.com, the P3 App, or by calling Polk County Crime Stoppers at 936-327-STOP, where information can remain anonymous and a cash reward could be collected for information leading to an arrest.