Driver Arrested After Tossing Bricks of Cocaine

The Fayette County Sheriff’s Department reports that on Saturday, Feb. 6, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Canine Unit Sgt. Randy Thumann and K-9 partner Kolt, stopped a black Toyota Camry on Interstate 10 at the 658 mile-marker at approximately 3 p.m. for a traffic violation. After speaking to the driver Thumann became suspicious that the vehicle was involved in transporting illegal narcotics. While Thumann was conducting a roadside interview the vehicle sped off at a high rate of speed. Thumann and Investigator David Smith pursued the vehicle for approximately 11 miles. During the Pursuit the driver was throwing what later was discovered as bricks of cocaine out the window. The driver eventually stopped and gave up without incident. Law enforcement authorities were able to recover five bricks of cocaine. A total weight of approximately 5.45 kilos and an estimated street value of $500,000 in cocaine was recovered. The driver Jose Venegas, 45 of Houston, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, evading arrest or detention with a vehicle and tampering with evidence. He was taken to the Dan R. Beck Justice Center. Assisting in the incident was Fayette County Deputy Terry Guentert and Flatonia Police Officer Chris Kucera.