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PORT NECHES — A Port Neches traffic stop led to the discovery of an illegal drug lab in a home that required a special task force to handle the removal of chemicals recently.

Two people were arrested in connection with the investigation, which is still ongoing.

A sergeant with Port Neches Police Department conducted a traffic stop Sept. 26 in the 1300 block of Port Neches Avenue and during the stop, K-9 Ruger was deployed and alerted on the vehicle, according to information from PNPD.

A probable cause search was subsequently conducted. During the search, multiple addressed and ready-for-shipment packages were located containing various anabolic steroids.

The female driver, 47-year-old Melinda Cowherd out of Village Mills, was then arrested for possession of a controlled substance. Bond was set at $50,000 and she has since bonded out of jail, according to information from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Further investigation ensued and a search warrant was obtained for a residence in the 700 block of Avenue C. During the initial search, investigators located numerous chemicals and equipment indicative of a clandestine lab, as well as more anabolic steroids.

While on scene, Melinda Cowherd’s husband, 51-year-old Abner Cowherd out of Village Mills arrived at the residence. He was placed under arrest for manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance.

He was booked in on Sept. 27 with bond set at $50,000 and was released on accusation on Sept. 29.

Due to the nature of chemicals and equipment present, Texas Department of Public Safety was contacted.

On Sept. 27, clandestine lab certified task force members arrived on scene. They conducted testing and removal of the chemicals and evidentiary items while ensuring the scene, officers and surrounding area were safe, according to police.

Among the items removed from the residence were binding agents and a pill press used in the creation of illicit pills for distribution, steroids and methamphetamine precursor chemicals.

This investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of what was being manufactured.

PNPD offered thanks to the members of the clandestine lab task force, the DEA for their assistance and providing personnel for the duration of this incident, DPS, Houston Police Department, task force members representing numerous agencies, Harris County Emergency Services District 2, Port Arthur Fire Department, Port Neches Fire Department, ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, PNPD officers and Investigators.

“This case exemplifies interagency cooperation and the hard work and dedication of our officers and those of all agencies involved. We are committed to protecting our city and utilizing all resources available to ensure the safety of our community,” according to PNPD.