On February 8, 2025, a joint narcotics task force, including deputies from Hopkins County and Hunt County, executed a search warrant on Houston Street in Sulphur Springs, leading to the arrest of 26-year-old Brandon Jon Stowater. Investigators discovered multiple controlled substances inside his residence and vehicle.
During the search, officers found 26.7 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Additional searches uncovered 0.542 grams of suspected cocaine in the driver’s side door pocket of Stowater’s vehicle and 3.874 grams of suspected heroin in the freezer of a split-unit refrigerator inside the home. The freezer, positioned approximately 15 inches from the floor, was within easy reach of the three children living in the residence.
Stowater was arrested and charged with Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance 1-B, two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance PG 1/1-B, and three counts of Abandoning/Endangering a Child. His total bond was set at $180,000 by Justice of the Peace Brad Cummings.
Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum commended the efforts of law enforcement officers involved in the operation.
"I would like to recognize the hard work and dedication of Hopkins County Narcotics Investigator Sgt. Tanner Steward, who, along with Hunt County Narcotics Investigators, completed a lengthy investigation resulting in a warrant being served. The warrant service was carried out by narcotics investigators, with assistance from Hopkins County K9 officer Cpl. Colt Patterson, Hopkins County Investigators, and Hopkins County Patrol Deputies. Their efforts ensured the removal of dangerous substances from our community and helped protect the well-being of children who were at risk," said Sheriff Tatum.
Stowater has a history of arrests in Upshur and Hopkins counties for offenses involving drugs, assault, home burglaries, theft, and resisting arrest.
The investigation remains ongoing.
