Many Texas cities cite problem areas where alleged drug activities occur. Often, undercover police officers infiltrate locations where drug crimes are suspected. Recently, Austin police officers issued warrants for over 80 people following a month-long operation.
The Street Narcotics Team of the Austin Police Department reported that officers purchased drugs from 81 suspects near the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH). Evidently, police had received complaints from people who claimed there were numerous drug sales around the facility. According to reports, cocaine had been purchased less than 1,000 feet from a school from one of the undercover officers.
Officers stated that 26 arrests have been made so far in the operation. All suspects, except one 16-year-old, were adults. While crack cocaine was the drug involved in the majority of arrests, heroin was cited in one arrest. A commander from the Organized Crime Unit reported that many of the people arrested had previous convictions for possession and sale of drugs.
Reports show that a Stay Away Order was included in the warrants. Officials stated that they wanted to prevent those arrested from returning to the area. The Austin Police Department had already increased their presence around the ARCH facility to combat alleged drug activity.
Being charged with drug crimes in Texas is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. Everyone has the right to present a defense against those charges. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can provide valuable assistance in this process. A strong defense team can see that a client’s rights are protected and work toward achieving the best possible outcome in the proceedings.
Source: kxan.com, “81 identified in massive APD undercover drug sting near the ARCH“, Sept. 8, 2017
