POLK COUNTY, Texas — A months-long narcotics investigation by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office has resulted in multiple arrests, significant drug seizures, and active felony warrants for a Livingston man accused of distributing methamphetamine throughout the county.
According to investigators, the Polk County Narcotics Division, assisted by the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division, conducted an extensive investigation into Michael Linan of Livingston for suspected methamphetamine distribution.
The investigation reached a critical point when narcotics detectives conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle leaving Linan’s residence in the Putnam’s Landing subdivision for a Texas Transportation Code violation. During the stop, deputies arrested Kevin Wangler of Trinity, who was found in possession of approximately two ounces of methamphetamine.
Information gathered from the investigation and evidence obtained during the stop led investigators to seek a search warrant for Linan’s residence. Judge John Wells reviewed the case and signed the warrant after determining probable cause existed.
During the execution of the warrant, investigators located Joe Escobedo III inside the garage and discovered he was in possession of roughly seven grams of methamphetamine.
Inside the home, deputies also located Nicole Keeley, who was found near a large quantity of methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms, digital scales, and packaging materials consistent with narcotics distribution. Authorities said the amount of drugs and equipment indicated trafficking activity rather than personal use.
Linan was not at the residence during the search. Investigators have since obtained active felony arrest warrants charging him with Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance in both Penalty Group 1 and Penalty Group 2.
Officials noted Linan has previously been arrested for selling methamphetamine from the same property. Due to the continued alleged drug activity and its impact on nearby residents, the Sheriff’s Office plans to file seizure paperwork with the Polk County District Attorney’s Office to begin forfeiture proceedings on the home under Texas law.
Sheriff Byron Lyons said investigators spent months building the case and emphasized that homes used as drug distribution sites will be targeted not only for criminal prosecution but also property seizure.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as deputies continue efforts to dismantle narcotics trafficking operations operating within Polk County.
