A Texas man with a prior murder conviction has been arrested for allegedly operating a drug operation near several schools. Jahml McDonald, 50, was taken into custody following a raid by the Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force on August 18, after a two-month investigation. Authorities reported that surveillance indicated teenagers were purchasing narcotics and fentanyl pills disguised as ecstasy from the residence on Appomattox Drive in Texas City.
During the raid, law enforcement seized approximately one kilogram of fentanyl pills, THC wax, marijuana, THC vapes, promethazine, and numerous bottles of liquor. The sheriff's office noted that the fentanyl pills were designed to resemble recreational party drugs.
The operation was described by Galveston Police Chief Doug Balli as a "full-service drug operation" that allowed payments via credit card. McDonald, who previously served 25 years for murder, was out on bond for a pending marijuana case at the time of his arrest. Galveston County District Attorney Kenneth Cusick stated that he intends to pursue the maximum prosecution for McDonald, citing his criminal history and the proximity of the operation to schools. Residents in the area reported increased traffic and concerns about safety due to the drug activity. A judge set a combined bond of $2 million for McDonald, with $1 million for each charge.