SABINE COUNTY, Texas – Local deputies have taken four additional suspects into custody as part of a months-long crackdown on methamphetamine distribution, marking another major step in Sabine County’s sweeping narcotics investigation.
The weekend arrests are tied to Operation Crystal Ball, a targeted enforcement effort launched in March to disrupt meth trafficking networks across the region. Since its launch, the initiative has produced more than a dozen charges, involved nearly 20 suspects, and led to the seizure of approximately 495 grams of methamphetamine, according to investigators.
Operation Crystal Ball Nears Completion
Authorities said the operation is now in its final phase, focusing on apprehending individuals accused of distributing meth or possessing significant quantities of illegal drugs. Deputies spent the weekend executing warrants across East Texas as part of this continuing effort.
Sheriff’s officials confirmed the latest round of arrests occurred between November 29 and December 1, adding to the growing list of individuals charged during the months-long investigation.
Details on the Four Arrested
The Sabine County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspects and outlined the alleged offenses. All four remain behind bars.
Lori Nicole Williams
Charge: Manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance
Kade Harley
Charge: Manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance
Cody Rhodes
Charge: Manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance
Justin Todd Short
Charge: Possession of a controlled substance
Deputies noted that each case involves methamphetamine-related activity uncovered during the broader investigation.
Sheriff Griffith: More Arrests Expected Soon
Sheriff George Griffith emphasized that these arrests are part of a larger coordinated push to remove meth from the community.
“These arrests, along with those from earlier, are only the beginning arrests of this phase of the operation,” Sheriff Griffith stated. “Several additional arrests will be coming in the next few weeks.”
Authorities said the momentum behind the operation remains strong, and more suspects connected to meth trafficking are expected to be taken into custody as the effort progresses.
Meth Use Remains a Critical Concern in East Texas
Local law enforcement agencies have long identified meth as one of the most pervasive drug threats in rural East Texas. Meth-related offenses frequently involve addiction, property crimes, and violent incidents, prompting regional authorities to increase enforcement and community outreach.
Officials say operations like Crystal Ball are designed not only to arrest traffickers but also to disrupt supply lines, support prevention programs, and reduce the long-term impact of meth on local families.
Community Urged to Report Suspicious Drug Activity
As investigators continue working through remaining leads, residents are encouraged to share information that may assist ongoing enforcement. Anonymous tips often play a crucial role in identifying drug houses, trafficking routes, and individuals distributing narcotics.
Anyone noticing suspicious activity is urged to contact the Sabine County Sheriff’s Office directly.
Conclusion
With four more individuals now in custody and additional arrests anticipated, Operation Crystal Ball continues to reshape the county’s effort to combat methamphetamine distribution. Investigators said the operation is entering its most impactful stage as authorities close in on the remaining suspects.
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