A Texas man with a prior murder conviction has been arrested and charged with two felony controlled-substance offenses for allegedly operating a "full-service drug operation" near multiple schools, according to the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities identified the suspect as Jahml McDonald, 50, of Texas City.
Drug Seizure and Investigation
The Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force initiated a two-month investigation into McDonald's activities, culminating in a raid on a residence in the 1200 block of Appomattox Drive in Texas City on August 18. The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team conducted the tactical entry.
During the raid, detectives seized approximately one kilogram of fentanyl pills, THC wax, marijuana, THC vapes, promethazine, and dozens of bottles of liquor. The sheriff’s office noted that the fentanyl pills were disguised to resemble ecstasy or MDMA and were brightly colored to mimic recreational party drugs.
The residence is located near Giles Middle School, the College of the Mainland, and two local elementary schools. Task force surveillance reportedly observed individuals appearing to be teenagers purchasing narcotics from the home.
Galveston Police Chief Doug Balli described the operation as a "convenience store for poison." The district attorney's office has pledged to seek the maximum prosecution available.
Criminal History and Bond
Galveston County District Attorney Kenneth Cusick stated that McDonald previously served 25 years for a murder conviction and was out on bond for a pending marijuana case at the time of his arrest. Cusick expressed outrage that McDonald was allegedly selling dangerous substances near educational institutions.
Residents living near the Appomattox Drive home reported noticing significant vehicle and foot traffic around the property, with frequent arrivals and departures of teenagers.
A judge has set a combined bond of $2 million for McDonald, with $1 million allocated to each of the two charges.
