Bay City Tribune

Matagorda County Sheriff's Office narcotics unit executed what they are calling one of the largest marijuana busts in the county's history at a home in the El Dorado subdivision just after 1 a.m. on Friday, June 26.

Fifty pounds of marijuana were seized along with $8,146 in cash and a .22-caliber rifle.

Myra Lopez, of Markham, 32, was arrested and charged with felony possession of marijuana.

The marijuana was transported from the Valley to be distributed in Matagorda and surrounding counties, according to a MCSO news release.

"This is the largest amount of marijuana seized in Matagorda County in several years," said Lt. Frank Craft, MCSO narcotics officer.

Capt. Richard Rooth, MCSO criminal investigation division, said the bust was a result of a continuing investigation.

"This lengthy investigation has been on-going for several months and more arrests are expected," said Rooth.

Lopez was released from jail after posting a $100,000 bond.

Sheriff Gary Mathis congratulated the officers who worked on this case.

"The sheriff's office narcotics division has been working hard this year to combat our drug problem," he said.

"This arrest and seizure has kept about $30,000 worth of drugs off the streets of Matagorda County."

"Proceedings have been initiated to ask that the seized money be forfeited to Matagorda County Sheriff's Office to be used for further narcotics enforcement as well as needed equipment," Mathis said.