San Marcos, Texas — Two people are in custody after a three-month narcotics investigation led by the San Marcos Police Department resulted in the seizure of a substantial quantity of methamphetamine and other illegal drugs, authorities confirmed. The joint operation involved multiple agencies and focused on disrupting meth distribution across Central Texas.
Joint Investigation Spanning Multiple Counties
According to the San Marcos Police Department, the investigation began in October and was conducted in collaboration with the Seguin Police Department CASE Unit and the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division. Officers worked together over several months, sharing intelligence and coordinating surveillance to track suspected drug trafficking activity moving between Hays County and Guadalupe County.
Police said the prolonged nature of the operation was intentional, allowing investigators to identify supply chains, delivery methods, and key individuals involved in distribution rather than making quick, isolated arrests.
Primary Suspect Identified Early in Operation
Investigators initially focused on 48-year-old Karin Erika Mince, whom authorities described as a known methamphetamine distributor operating primarily out of Seguin while supplying buyers in surrounding counties. Through controlled purchases and surveillance, officers were able to gather sufficient evidence to move forward.
During the early phase of the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately 14 ounces of methamphetamine and 7.5 grams of cocaine, confirming the scale of the operation and prompting investigators to widen their scope.
Expansion of Case Leads to Second Arrest
As detectives continued analyzing communications and transactions linked to Mince, the investigation expanded to include 36-year-old Marcos Antonio Hernandez. Authorities say Hernandez was identified as a key figure involved in transporting large quantities of methamphetamine.
In December, Hernandez was arrested during a controlled operation while allegedly delivering one full kilogram of methamphetamine. Police described the seizure as one of the most significant outcomes of the investigation and a critical disruption to local drug distribution networks.
Search Warrants Reveal Additional Drugs
Following Hernandez’s arrest, investigators executed additional search warrants connected to the case. During those searches, officers located an additional half-kilogram of methamphetamine, along with counterfeit pills believed to contain fentanyl and other illegal substances.
Police noted that counterfeit pills pose a serious risk because users often believe they are consuming prescription medication, not realizing they may contain fentanyl, which has been linked to a sharp rise in overdose deaths nationwide.
Authorities Emphasize Teamwork Behind Arrests
The San Marcos Police Department stressed that the success of the investigation was rooted in cooperation and patience. In a statement, SMPD said:
“These arrests happened because agencies worked together, shared intelligence, and committed real resources over months, not days.”
Officials highlighted that drug trafficking investigations often require extensive planning, surveillance, and coordination across jurisdictions to ensure long-term impact rather than short-term disruption.
Impact on Community Safety
Law enforcement leaders said the operation successfully removed a large supply of dangerous drugs from circulation, reducing the potential harm to communities throughout Central Texas. Methamphetamine and fentanyl-related substances are frequently associated with addiction, violent crime, and fatal overdoses, making large-scale seizures especially significant.
Police also noted that cases involving organized drug distribution are rarely isolated, and investigations often continue even after arrests are made as authorities pursue additional leads.
Ongoing Enforcement Efforts
The San Marcos Police Department confirmed that it will continue working with regional and county partners to target narcotics trafficking and related criminal activity. Officials encouraged residents to report suspicious behavior and emphasized that community tips often play an important role in long-term investigations.
Anyone with information related to drug activity is urged to contact local law enforcement or submit tips anonymously through appropriate reporting channels.
Conclusion
Authorities say the arrests of Karin Erika Mince and Marcos Antonio Hernandez demonstrate the effectiveness of coordinated enforcement and sustained investigative work in addressing serious drug crimes. By removing significant quantities of methamphetamine and other dangerous substances, police believe the operation has made a meaningful impact on public safety in San Marcos and surrounding areas.
If drug activity or suspicious behavior is affecting your neighborhood, consider reporting it to local authorities. Share your experiences or thoughts in the comments below.
