Texas DPS Seizes Over 30 Pounds of THC and Marijuana in Major Drug Bust
Thousands of Vape Cartridges and THC Products Recovered in Oldham County Traffic Stop
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has intercepted a major drug shipment during a routine traffic stop in Oldham County, Texas. Authorities seized over 30 pounds of THC and marijuana, including thousands of vape cartridges, highlighting ongoing law enforcement efforts to curb illegal drug distribution in the state.
Traffic Stop Uncovers Large THC Shipment
On February 25 at approximately 2:45 p.m., a DPS trooper pulled over a 2023 Chrysler Pacifica traveling east on I-40 near Vega, Texas, for a traffic violation. During the stop, the trooper observed that the driver was acting nervously and detected a strong odor of marijuana inside the vehicle.
A DPS K-9 unit, Tex, was deployed to inspect the vehicle. The K-9 alerted to multiple cardboard boxes in the rear of the vehicle. Upon further investigation, the trooper discovered an extensive quantity of THC products, including 5,700 THC vape cartridges, 30 jars of THC butter, and 16 jars of marijuana. The total weight of the seized products included over 25 pounds of THC oil, more than four pounds of THC butter, and one pound of marijuana.
Driver Arrested and Charged with Felony Drug Offenses
The driver, identified as Gatlan Mitchell, 25, of Brackettville, Texas, was arrested at the scene and later booked into the Oldham County Jail. He faces felony charges for the manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana under Texas law.
Authorities confirmed that the drugs were being transported from New Mexico to Texas, but the final destination remains unknown.
Growing Concern Over Drug Trafficking in Texas
This seizure highlights the growing challenge of THC and marijuana smuggling into Texas, where recreational marijuana remains illegal. New Mexico, which has legalized marijuana, has become a major source of cannabis products flowing into Texas, where strict laws and penalties remain in place.
Law enforcement officials continue to crack down on illegal drug transport across state lines, as Texas remains a zero-tolerance state for THC products outside of its limited medical cannabis program.
The Maverick Take
The increasing number of THC and marijuana-related busts in Texas underscores a larger debate over drug policy enforcement. While many neighboring states have relaxed their cannabis laws, Texas continues to impose strict penalties on those caught transporting marijuana-based products.
Lawmakers and law enforcement agencies are under increased pressure to address the rise in illegal THC distribution, with some calling for tougher border enforcement while others push for statewide cannabis reform.
This case is a clear example of Texas authorities maintaining a hard stance on THC possession, as even small amounts of marijuana-derived products can lead to severe felony charges.
Source: Yahoo
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