Joint Law Enforcement Operation Leads to Arrests and Seizures in Eagle Lake, Texas

In the early hours of Thursday, February 1, 2024, a meticulously coordinated operation led by the Austin County Regional Special Response Team alongside the Texas Department of Public Safety Special Response Team, culminated in the execution of arrest and search warrants at two key locations in Eagle Lake, Texas. The targeted residences, situated in the 200 Block of Allen Street and 500 Block of East Union Street, were the focus of an extensive narcotics investigation spearheaded by the Westside High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Narcotics Task Force.

The operation was initiated following reports of narcotics distribution emanating from the said residences, with the Task Force diligently working to corroborate these allegations. The successful execution of the warrants resulted in the arrest of three individuals: Frank Cantu Sr, aged 63, Frank Cantu Jr, aged 33, and Deborah Cantu, aged 55. The arrests were carried out without incident, highlighting the professionalism and precision of the involved officers.

In the course of the operation, officers seized methamphetamine and filed charges of Manufacture and/or Delivery of a Controlled Substance against all defendants. The suspects were subsequently booked into the Colorado County Jail.

The Westside Narcotics Task Force, a collaborative effort covering four counties, comprises dedicated investigators from various agencies including the Austin County Sheriff’s Office, Bellville PD, Sealy PD, Hempstead PD, Waller County Sheriff’s Office, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The Colorado County Attorney’s Office provided invaluable assistance throughout the investigation, underscoring the importance of inter-agency cooperation in combating drug trafficking.

The Eagle Lake Police Department and the Colorado County Sheriff’s Office also played critical roles in the arrest and search warrant operation, further demonstrating the collective resolve of law enforcement agencies in Texas to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities.

This operation underscores the commitment of the Westside Narcotics Task Force and its partners to disrupt and dismantle narcotics distribution networks. The agencies involved wish to express their gratitude to the community for their support and to reaffirm their dedication to keeping our streets safe from the scourge of illegal narcotics.