DEA: Houston PCP Seizure Is Largest Ever

Nine Houston residents have been arrested in what federal agents say is the largest seizure of "actual PCP," rather than only mixing chemicals, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced.

The arrests came at the climax of an 18-month investigation dubbed Operation Scratch Off; DEA agents seized 57 gallons of the PCP in the bust.

The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of federal and local law enforcement agencies conducted the investigation.

"The success of the investigation leading to today's arrests is a result of the close and sustained cooperation between DEA and our law enforcement partners to target and remove drug trafficking organizations operating in and around the Houston metro area," according to Acting Special Agent Thomas Hinojosa. "This investigation highlights the ability of law enforcement agencies in Houston to work together to make our communities safer."

The combined task force included the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Houston and Pasadena police departments, Harris and San Jacinto County sheriff's offices and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Those arrested included Andre Smith, 52; Samuel Joseph Jackson, 35; Tyrone Dewayne Roberson, 38; Michael Ardion, 50; Archie Deneshe Harris, 34; Cameo Deshawn McAfee, 24; Joseph Lamar Broussard, 37; Karola Johnson-Gant, 43; and Chatela Jackson, 32.