Sept. 26, two Hardin County residents were arrested on drug charges, reported the Port Neches Police Department.
Officers conducting a traffic stop in the 1300 block of Port Neches Ave. deployed a K-9 that alerted on the vehicle and a probable cause search was subsequently conducted. During the search, multiple addressed and readyfor-shipment packages were located containing various anabolic steroids. Melinda Cowherd, 47, of Village Mills, was arrested for possession of a con- trolled substance.
Further investigation ensued and a search warrant was obtained for a residence in the 700 block of Ave. C. During the search, investigators discovered numerous chemicals and equipment indicative of a clandestine lab, as well as more anabolic steroids.
When the husband, Abner Cowherd, 51, arrived on the scene, he was arrested for manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance.
Sept. 27, clandestine lab certified task force members arrived on scene to conduct testing and remove chemicals and evidentiary items while ensuring the scene, officers and surrounding area were safe.
Among the items removed were binding agents and a pill press used in the creation of illicit pills for distribution, steroids and methamphetamine precursor chemicals.
The investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of what was being manufactured, according to PNPD.