TEXAS — A multi-agency investigation into a methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking ring in Upshur County has led to seven arrests and the death of a suspect during an officer-involved shooting, according to the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the investigation began in 2023 when a deputy assigned to a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) task force opened a case into Cole Seabolt, 30, who was identified as a known drug supplier in the area. Investigators later uncovered a larger drug trafficking organization believed to be connected to the ongoing flow of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Upshur County and surrounding communities.
The DEA, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Gregg County Sheriff’s Office and Upshur County deputies worked together on the case, identifying Michael Dewayne Jones, 38, also known as “Sleepy,” and Daetrum Odum, 26, as priority targets.
After more than two years of investigation, authorities arrested seven individuals and seized nine firearms, approximately 1.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, 344 grams of fentanyl and 678 grams of counterfeit oxycodone pills, officials said.
During the course of the investigation in 2025, a Gregg County deputy shot and killed Amanda Allen, 43, an associate of Seabolt, while attempting to arrest her following an undercover drug deal. Authorities said Allen was shot after ramming a patrol vehicle while trying to evade a traffic stop in Gladewater.
According to jail records, Jones faces charges of manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance and is being held on a federal detainer warrant for two counts of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Odum is facing multiple federal and local charges, including a weapons violation and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
Seth Seabolt, 31, is charged on federal and local warrants, including two counts of possession of a controlled substance and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Jason Williams, 47, faces two counts of manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance.
Cole Seabolt is also charged on a federal detainer warrant with a weapons violation and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Shannon Stouffer, 57, is charged with possession of a controlled substance and abandoning or endangering a child with imminent danger or bodily injury.
Kelly Miller, 47, faces multiple charges, including manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful carrying of a weapon by a felon, fraudulent use or possession of identifying information, interfering with public duties and possession of marijuana.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
