Sheriff’s deputies fight off pit pull in Port Arthur drug, weapons sting
Published 8:09 pm Wednesday, October 18, 2017
On Wednesday morning, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit and SWAT discovered a cache of drugs and weapons at a Thomas Boulevard residents though a deputy had to fight a pit bull to get inside the house.
According to a press release from the sheriff’s office, investigators had already done surveillance and made undercover narcotics buys from people inside the home and a search warrant was obtained from that.
Upon SWATs approach to the house, two male subjects were detained on the porch. One of the SWAT team members was attacked by a pit bull that was also on the porch. Due to the close proximity of other houses nearby and the safety of others in the area, the SWAT member chose to physically fight off the dog and restrain it rather than fire his gun.
Upon entry into the home, investigators discovered two loaded handguns and a loaded .22 rifle altered to look like an AR15. It was noted that during one of the drug buys, the male drug dealer was armed with a semi-automatic handgun.
One of the suspects on the porch, 31 year old Hector Martinez of Port Arthur, admitted that it was his residence. He then led investigators to a large stash of hydroponic marijuana concealed in a room. It totaled 6.17 pounds. The marijuana and firearms were seized.
Martinez was booked into the Jefferson County Correctional Facility on the charge of felony possession of marijuana. Investigators are still investigating the firearms and other persons who may be involved at the house. The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force was notified in reference to numerous vehicles and car parts that were discovered at the house.
A sheriff department’s spokesperson said they appreciate the assistance from Port Arthur Police Department and the Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force.