ATF Houston leads coordinated operation resulting in eight federal indictments and multiple arrests across East Texas

HOUSTON - What began as a firearms dealer burglary investigation in Jasper, has resulted in a coordinated, multi-agency enforcement operation across East Texas, today.

Following the June 2022 burglary at Lakes Area Pawn Shop, ATF, with assistance from state and local law enforcement partners, led an investigation that resulted in eight federal indictments.

Today, law enforcement partners coordinated efforts to execute arrest warrants across Jasper, Tyler, Angelina, and Galveston counties. Seven warrants were executed, with the eighth defendant already incarcerated on unrelated charges.

"These arrests demonstrate exactly what can be achieved when federal, state, and local partners unite behind a shared mission," said ATF Houston Special Agent in Charge Michael Weddel. "Our investigators worked relentlessly to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. Today's operation reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting East Texas communities from violent crime and the illegal trafficking of firearms."

This operation highlights the impact of strong partnerships, thorough investigative work, and coordinated law enforcement efforts.

ATF Houston recognizes the outstanding contributions of all participating agencies:

• ATF Houston Field Division
• Texas DPS Criminal Investigations Division
• Texas DPS
• Jasper Police Department
• U.S. Marshals Service
• Angelina County Sheriff's Office
• Lufkin Police Department
• Homeland Security Investigations Beaumont
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Gulf Coast Violent Offenders Task Force
• Jasper County Sheriff's Office

One investigation. Multiple agencies. A shared commitment to public safety.

If you have information concerning this or other violent crimes, contact the ATF Hotline at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477) or email us [email protected].

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ATF protects American communities from violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives, and acts of arson. Through crime gun intelligence, forensic analysis, and relentless investigation, we identify and arrest violent offenders and gang members, dismantle trafficking networks, and sever the supply chains arming cartels, prohibited persons, and terrorist organizations. We defend the rights of law-abiding citizens by safeguarding lawful commerce and upholding the Constitution of the United States. Learn more about what ATF is doing to reduce violent crime in your community by following us on X @ATFHQ, Instagram @ATFHQ, LinkedIn @ATF, and Facebook @HQATF, or on the web at www.atf.gov .