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Markel Jermaine Frelow, 28, of Beaumont
After a local "known drug dealer" borrowed his customer’s vehicle in a crack-for-car barter, the 28-year-old Beaumont man was indicted for possession of a controlled substance.
A Jefferson County grand jury indicted Markel Jermaine Frelow, 28, April 6 for possession of dihydrocodeinone (Hydrocodone) after a man told officers he loaned Frelow his car “in exchange for crack cocaine.”
At about 2 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 5, Beaumont Police Department (BPD) officers arrived at La Salsita on Washington Boulevard in reference to an auto theft complaint. Upon arrival, officers made contact with 55-year-old Terry Bean, who told officers he loaned his vehicle to the suspect, “in exchange for crack cocaine.”
“The complainant advised that he wished to recover his vehicle, and he was escorted to Frelow’s last known location at 1045 Fulton Ave. Officers found the vehicle with Frelow in the front seat,” wrote BPD Officer J. Froman. “Upon making contact with Frelow, I observed in plain view the handle of a Taurus .357 pistol tucked next to his right leg, as well as a clear baby bottle containing a green, liquid-like substance. From my law enforcement training and experience, I know that such characteristics are indicative of promethazine, a dangerous drug.”
Officers found $4,176 in cash, as well as one hydrocodone pill. According to a 2019 BPD case, the pistol was reportedly stolen.
“Detectives later advised to me that the promethazine was determined to weigh 12.2 oz, and the Hydrocone was determined to weigh around .430 grams,” Froman wrote.
As of press time, Frelow was not listed on the Jefferson County inmate roster. For more on the story, pick up a copy of The Examiner April 14.