Three Nabbed in Drug Raid

CHAPEL HILL — Three are in custody following a Smith County drug raid. Around 6:00 yesterday morning, Smith County Sheriff’s Office Special Services and Criminal Investigations Division detectives along with patrol deputies executed a search warrant at the 15800 block of Highway 64 East in the eastern portion of Smith County. Officials say Judge Christi Kennedy of the 114st State District Court issued the warrant authorizing the search of the residence following an investigation lasting several months.

Investigators seized a quantity of methamphetamine consistent with distribution as well as marijuana, various pills, and drug paraphernalia from the residence, according to a news release. The three suspects were arrested onsite. Drew Michael Mizzles, 31, and Lacy Layne Taylor, 25, of Tyler, are currently booked into the Smith County Jail on a charge of manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance, with bond yet to be determined.

Billy Joe Tani, 27, of Mineola, is currently booked into the Smith County Jail on a charge of possession of a controlled substance. Tani also had two outstanding warrants. One warrant is for theft of wire/cable alum/bronze/copper issued by Judge Jack Skeen, Jr., of the 241st State District Court, who set bond at $10,000. The second warrant is a Tyler Police Department warrant for theft of services with bond set at $5,000.

The Smith County Sheriff�s Office Narcotics Division worked in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Tyler Office) and the Drug Enforcement Administration during this investigation. Texas Department of Health and Human Services (CPS) was contacted prior to the execution of the search warrant after it was learned that three children were living in the home. The three children were turned over to CPS.