K-9 Unit Seizes 58 Lbs. of Meth

Fayette County Sheriff Keith Korenek reports that on Wednesday, Feb. 3 the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Canine Unit, Sgt. Randy Thumann and K9 partner Kolt, stopped a Volkswagen SUV on Interstate 10 at the 673 mile-marker at approximately 2:13 p.m. for a traffic violation. After speaking to the driver Thumann became suspicious that the vehicle was involved in transporting illegal narcotics. Thumann was given consent to search the vehicle. Thumann deployed his canine Kolt to conduct an exterior sweep of the vehicle. Thumann observed Kolt alerted to the interior of the vehicle for the presence of illegal narcotics. A search of the vehicle revealed 10 ink toners cartridges for laser printers, new in the box, each loaded with methamphetamine instead of ink. Approximately 58 pounds of meth was discover with an estimated street value of $2.7 million dollars. The driver Alvaro Barrera, 49 of Laredo, was arrested for felony drug possession and taken to the Dan R. Beck Justice Center.