Arrests made in meth operation in two states
An eight-month investigation into drug trafficking along the southwest Oklahoma border resulted in 13 arrests Thursday.
The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics along with federal, state and local officers served 21 arrest warrants on suspects allegedly tied to a methamphetamine trafficking operation in Lawton and parts of north Texas.
“This investigation began in November of 2018 after receiving information about individuals trafficking and distributing large quantities of methamphetamine throughout Lawton, Oklahoma and the Wichita Falls, Texas area,” OBN Spokesman Mark Woodward said.
The main target of the investigation, Joshua Watts, controlled the distribution of between two and 10 pounds of meth at any given time, according to authorities.
On July 3, OBN agents arrested Watts on a felony count of knowingly concealing stolen property. At the time of his arrest, OBN said, Watts was in possession of about a quarter- pound of methamphetamine and a firearm.
Watts was being held on $ 1 million bail in the Comanche County Detention Center.
“This case is a perfect example of law enforcement agencies coming together to ensure our communities are kept safe,” OBN Director John Scully said. “The individuals targeted in this investigation, if gone unabated, could poison entire communities with their illicit drugs. OBN will continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure a positive quality of life for our citizens.”
Six of the 21 arrest warrants served were in the Wichita Falls area and the remaining warrants were executed at locations in Lawton, authorities said.
Those arrested face a variety of charges, including conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine.
The Lawton Police Department and the U. S. Marshal Service, as well as the District 3 and District 6 Drug Task Forces, assisted in the investigation.