Constable Cash is pleased to announce the arrest of two major suppliers of narcotics to juveniles and the community within the Willis area. Beginning in the fall of 2022, Administrators and law enforcement officers working at schools throughout Willis ISD began to see a dramatic increase in the use of tobacco and THC (Marijuana) vapes in and around the district. This increase was not only affecting Willis ISD, but schools and districts across the county. Precinct 1 along with Willis ISD Administrators began a lengthy investigation into the source of these narcotics.
Through interviews, surveillance operations, and follow-up investigations, deputies were able to locate several persons of interest and after several weeks; were able to identify them. Continuing with the investigation, deputies learned both suspects attended Willis High School and were known by other students to be suppliers of illegal narcotics within the school. Using this information, Precinct 1 deputies began working in conjunction with the Department of Public Safety to organize and plan an operation to arrest these individuals.
This week, deputies with the Precinct 1 Constable’s Office along with Special Agents from the Department of Public Safety conducted an operation that resulted in the off-campus arrest of 18-year-old Jesus Salinas and a 16-year-old male (who will not be identified due to his age) for Manufacture and Delivery of a Controlled Substance, a 1st Degree Felony. In the arrest, deputies seized 245 grams of THC oil, $503 in US currency, and a 1911 firearm. The THC oil was contained within approximately 245 “vape-style pens.” Vape pens, commonly referred to as “Cake vapes, cake carts, or dab pens” contain THC at around 82% potency, any potency over .3% is a felony in the State of Texas. This potency allows the user to achieve the same high as smoking marijuana. These devices are easily hidden in backpacks, purses, and gym bags.
Constable Cash firmly believes a school is a place for our children to learn and grow; it is our responsibility to ensure this is possible. “I am proud of the efforts put in by all the personnel involved with this case. I am grateful for the support, cooperation, and partnership of the Administrators of the Willis Independent School District. It is because of these positive relationships we are able to provide a safe and secure environment for our children and future leaders of our community! If you see something, say something, together we can keep our children safe!”
