LUFKIN, TX — A traffic stop for minor violations escalated into a major investigation resulting in narcotics and child exploitation charges against a 33-year-old Lufkin man. Kenneth Wayne Cassels Jr. was arrested on May 5, 2026, after deputies discovered over 300 illicit images on his phone and recovered a significant quantity of methamphetamine.
Traffic Stop and Drug Discovery
Deputies with the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) stopped Cassels’ vehicle on US Hwy 59 south of Lufkin for multiple traffic violations. During the encounter, Cassels allegedly attempted to discard two bags from the vehicle.
Investigators recovered the items, which tested positive for methamphetamine, weighing approximately 59 grams. The quantity suggested involvement in narcotics trafficking, prompting deputies to secure a search warrant for Cassels’ cellular device.
Digital Forensics Uncover Child Abuse Material
While conducting a forensic examination of the phone for evidence of drug distribution, investigators discovered suspected child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This discovery led to a second search warrant specifically targeting child exploitation.
The final analysis of the device revealed:
-
Over 300 images of suspected child sexual abuse material stored on the phone.
-
Evidence supporting five counts of Possession or Promotion of Child Pornography, which is a first-degree felony in Texas.
Charges and Bonds
Cassels was booked into the Angelina County Jail on a variety of serious felony charges:
-
5 Counts: Possession or Promotion of Child Pornography (1st Degree Felony)
-
1 Count: Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 1 (Felony)
-
1 Count: Tampering with Physical Evidence (Felony)
He is currently being held under a collective bond totaling $600,000. The Angelina County Sheriff’s Office acknowledged the collaboration of Special Agents from the Texas DPS Criminal Investigations Division in building the case.
