TEXAS — Nearly 50 people have been charged and almost 80 pounds of illegal drugs were seized following an 18-month, multi-agency investigation targeting a large drug trafficking organization operating in the Concho Valley, federal authorities announced Thursday.
During a press conference in San Angelo, officials detailed the results of “Operation Concho Valley Shakedown,” a coordinated effort involving local, state and federal law enforcement agencies aimed at dismantling the Walker Drug Trafficking Organization.
According to authorities, a federal grand jury charged 24 individuals in connection with a high-volume methamphetamine conspiracy operating primarily in the Concho Valley. Local prosecutors also pursued charges against an additional 24 people for felony and misdemeanor offenses related to the investigation.
Federal officials said the organization was based in San Angelo and extended into several West Texas communities, including Del Rio, Midland and Llano County.
Investigators conducted months of surveillance and multiple operations throughout the investigation. In one case, agents seized nearly 10 kilograms of methamphetamine from an alleged drug runner. In another operation, authorities intercepted a large drug shipment north of San Angelo and recovered more than 20 kilograms, or about 45 pounds, of methamphetamine after suspects attempted to flee.
The investigation culminated May 28 when law enforcement agencies executed a series of court-authorized warrants across San Angelo. The operation involved helicopters, tactical teams, armored vehicles and specialized law enforcement units.
Authorities arrested George Walker, who investigators identified as an alleged leader of the drug trafficking organization.
Overall, officials said the operation resulted in the seizure of more than 35,890 grams of methamphetamine, more than 300 grams of cocaine and 10 firearms. Investigators said much of the drug supply was traced to an individual in Abilene.
Law enforcement officials said the operation represents a significant step in combating drug trafficking in West Texas and pledged continued federal, state and local cooperation in the region.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
