News Headlines

Drug Bust In Center - Police Caught The Dirty Dealers

 
 
Sheriff Willis Blackwell states that on Tuesday, Feb. 2, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Kurtes Lawrence responded to a residence on County Road 1015 in reference to a homeowner finding his home being burglarized. 
Upon arrival, Lawrence was met by the homeowner, who with the assistance of his son detained four individuals at gunpoint until officers arrived. The suspects stated they were given permission by an individual to wash clothes at the residence. 
During the investigation, Lawrence questioned the suspects about items located in the vehicle at the residence. One individual stated there was marijuana in the car. Lawrence located the marijuana along with rolling papers. A search of the vehicle was conducted in which a metal case was located that contained drug paraphernalia and a small green plastic bag containing a white crystal substance believed to be methamphetamine. Another pouch was located inside a backpack which held two clear plastic bags and five small green plastic bags. The bags contained the substance believed to be methamphetamine and all were packaged for sell.
Lawrence and the homeowner entered the residence and discovered fresh pry marks on an interior door leading inside the home.  It was discovered that the suspects entered the residence and used the washing machine to wash clothes. A small pry bar was located inside the pocket of one of the suspects. It is believed the pry bar was used to gain entry into the residence. 
Arrested at the scene were Margie Nicole Stahl, 27, of Logansport; Savannah Marie Sowell, 32, of Bronson; Steve Lawrence Smith, Jr., 25, of San Augustine and Tia Lenee Meshell, 26, of Center. The suspects were charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (M-A) - $3,000 bond; Burglary of a Habitation (F-2) - $3,000 bond and Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance (F-1) - $5,000 bond. Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 Maxie Eaves arraigned the suspects and set bonds. 
Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Sergeant Derek Barbee conducted a field test on the suspected methamphetamines and a positive test result was achieved. The total weight of the narcotics yielded 12 grams. Officers assisting with arrests were: Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Roy Bailey, Sergeant Derek Barbee and Center Police Officers Jake Gross and Andrew Williams.  
Blackwell would like to thank Center Police Department Officers that assisted and the property owners for their awareness and vigilance. Blackwell states there are several narcotic investigations going on at this time and if anyone has any information of suspected illegal narcotic activities please contact the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office at 936-598-5600. 
 
 
 
 

Roughriders Sports

Family Features

Loading Family Features Content Widget
Loading Family Features Article