Mobile Meth Lab Seized in Tyler

TYLER � A Dallas man has been arrested in Tyler for drug violations. Taken into custody was Robert William Zandstra, 27, of Dallas. He has been charged with possession of a controlled substance, penalty group 1, one gram or more but less than four grams, in a school zone, a 2nd degree felony. The ATF also entered the case because of the weapons that were found and additional charges may be filed.

It all began when officers were dispatched to the Sleep Inn at 5555 Donnybrook, where the hotel cleaning staff entered one of the rooms to clean it and saw several suspicious items lying in the open. These items included firearms, suppressors, and assorted pills. The ATF and DEA were notified of the incident and responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.

After Zandstra gave officers permission to search his room and car, they found two AR-15 rifles, a Walther P22 handgun, a revolver, assorted pills, suppressors and assorted material to manufacture suppressors. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of a mobile methamphetamine laboratory, methamphetamines and an unknown assortment pills. All weapons, suppressors and other assorted materials to manufacture suppressors were seized by ATF who is continuing to investigate potential federal law violations. Zandstra remains in the Smith County Jail.