UPSHUR COUNTY, Texas — A long-term investigation led by the Upshur County Sheriff's Office and federal partners has resulted in the dismantling of a major methamphetamine and fentanyl distribution network operating across East Texas.
The investigation began in December 2023 when a deputy assigned to a Drug Enforcement Administration task force initiated a case targeting Cole Seabolt, identified by authorities as a drug supplier in the region. Investigators said the case quickly expanded into a broader drug trafficking organization impacting multiple counties.
Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement agencies including the DEA, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Texas Department of Public Safety and several local departments worked together to identify key figures in the operation, including Michael Dewayne Jones, known as “Sleepy,” and Daetrum Odum.
The investigation concluded in January 2026 with the arrests of Cole and Seth Seabolt, Jones, Odum and several other members of the organization.
Authorities said the operation led to the seizure of:
- Nine firearms
- Approximately 1.2 kilograms of methamphetamine
- 344 grams of fentanyl powder
- 678 grams of counterfeit oxycodone pills
Officials described the outcome as the complete dismantling of the distribution network.
Among those arrested:
- Michael Jones, 38, is charged with manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance and faces federal conspiracy charges, with bond set at $500,000.
- Daetrum Odum, 26, faces multiple drug and weapons-related charges, along with a $100,000 bond and federal detainer.
- Seth Allen Seabolt, 31, is charged with multiple possession counts and federal conspiracy charges.
- Cole Seabolt, 30, faces federal charges related to weapons violations and drug conspiracy.
- Jason Williams, 47, faces two counts of manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance.
- Shannon Stouffer, 57, is charged with drug possession and child endangerment.
- Kelly Ann Miller, 47, faces multiple charges including drug delivery, unlawful weapon possession and fraud-related offenses, with bond set at $285,000.
Authorities also identified Amanda Rene Allen, 43, as an associate involved in the operation. During a 2025 attempt to take her into custody, officials said Allen used her vehicle as a weapon, leading officers to use deadly force.
Four suspects are currently being held in the Upshur County Jail on state and federal charges.
The sheriff’s office credited numerous agencies for their assistance, including the Gregg County Sheriff's Office, Titus County Sheriff’s Office, Mount Pleasant Police Department, Daingerfield Police Department, Henderson Police Department and Gladewater Police Department.
Officials said the investigation highlights the importance of collaboration among local, state and federal agencies in combating the flow of illegal drugs in East Texas.
