Major Drug Ring Busted in East Texas After 3-Year Investigation

We know that law enforcement officers in East Texas work hard and there is proof of that as a major drug trafficking ring was dismantled in Upshur County. This investigation was almost three years' worth of efforts, but it has paid off as seven people have been arrested for involvement in a drug ring that was distributing large amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine.

How the Investigation Began

Details were released by the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office stating that a deputy assigned to the DEA Task Force opened an investigation in December 2023 into Cole Seabolt who was known as an illegal drug dealer in the county.

During the investigation law enforcement became aware of a drug trafficking organization that operated in Upshur and surrounding counties. Several law enforcement agencies including Upshur and Gregg County Sheriff’s Offices launched a comprehensive investigation into the operation and individuals behind it. During the investigation DEA priority targets were identified as Michael Jones and Daetrum Odum.

READ MORE: Mother Sentenced To Federal Prison In Texas Drug Smuggling Case

Deadly Encounter During Investigation

During the investigation, another associate of Seabolt, Amanda Allen, was killed in an officer-involved shooting after she struck a patrol car, resulting in deputies firing shots at her in self-defense. Allen was believed to be carrying methamphetamine at the time of her death.

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Arrests Made After 3-Year Probe

The investigation concluded in January 2026 with both Cole and Seth Seabolt being arrested as well as Jones and Odum and several other individuals who were found to be part of the organization.

During the investigation officers seized nine firearms, 1.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, 344 grams of fentanyl powder and 678 grams of counterfeit oxycodone pills.

Here is a list of the individuals arrested and the charges they are facing:

Individuals arrested following the investigation include:

• Michael Jones: Charged with the manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance and 2 counts of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
• Daetrum Odum: Charged with assault, family violence, manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
• Seth Seabolt: Charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance and two counts of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances
• Jasson Williams: Charged with two counts of manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance
• Cole Seabolt: Charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and weapons violation
• Shannon Stouffer: Charged with possession of a controlled substance
• Kelly Miller: Charged with the manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful carrying of a weapon and possession of marijuana