Abilene, TX – A large-scale drug operation led by the Abilene Police Department and several partner agencies resulted in the arrest of nine individuals on Thursday, October 30, 2025, after six federal search warrants were executed across different parts of the city.
The Coordinated Drug Operation
According to a press release from the Abilene Police Department, the multi-agency narcotics investigation was a collaborative effort between the Abilene Police Department, the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The coordinated operation targeted individuals involved in drug distribution and possession of controlled substances throughout Abilene.
Those arrested on federal drug distribution charges include Demonte Stewart, Michael Mcann, Janette Thomas, Kevin King, John Rangel, and Tony April Quiroz. Each suspect faces significant penalties if convicted under federal narcotics laws.
Additional Arrests and Charges
Beyond the federal arrests, several other individuals face state-level charges. Derek Hernandez was charged with a 1st Degree Felony for Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine). Sean Moss was charged with a State Jail Felony for Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine), while Artavious Hawkins faces multiple charges — including 3rd Degree Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine), two counts of 1st Degree Aggravated Robbery, and one count of 2nd Degree Felony Robbery.
Authorities say these arrests represent the culmination of an extensive investigation targeting methamphetamine distribution in the area.
Search Warrants and Locations Involved
Federal and state officers executed search warrants at six locations, including:
- The Mandalay Apartments on the 1700 block of N. 10th Street,
- The Cedar Creek Apartments on the 1900 block of Denton Street,
- A residence on the 1100 block of Orange Street, and
- A vehicle located at S. 14th and Willis Streets.
Officials noted that the searches uncovered evidence linked to ongoing narcotics trafficking operations. The department emphasized that while multiple arrests were made, a criminal complaint remains an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Multi-Agency Collaboration and Federal Support
The Abilene Police Department praised the collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies, highlighting that these types of cooperative investigations are critical in disrupting organized drug networks.
In a statement, officials expressed gratitude to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas for its role in the investigation and prosecution process. The joint operation underscores the growing importance of federal partnerships in addressing regional drug-related crime.
Community Impact and Continuing Efforts
Authorities believe this operation will have a significant impact on local drug trafficking in Abilene, particularly methamphetamine-related activity. Law enforcement leaders emphasized that community safety remains their top priority and that further investigations and arrests may follow as part of the ongoing crackdown.
The Abilene Police Department continues to encourage residents to report suspicious drug activity through its Crime Stoppers tip line, ensuring community members play an active role in keeping neighborhoods safe.
What do you think about the growing number of drug busts across Texas? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
