By Rupert Howell

Local law enforcement partnered in a Monday morning arrest of Terry Griffin on Browning Street in Batesville following a tip from the Department of Homeland Security,  netting the suspect and a semi-tractor and refrigerated trailer.

Griffin was turned over to federal officials who have charged him with possession with intent to distribute 1,181 kilos, over 2,600 pounds, of marijuana; conspiracy and aiding and abetting.

Mark Whitten, who just recently served as Panola County’s Task Force commander, got the call from Homeland Security asking for assistance in the apprehension of Griffin about 9:30 a.m. Monday.

Griffin was thought to be at one of two addresses and Homeland Security, Batesville Police Department along with sheriff deputies, and county task force members, split into two teams before converging on the Browning Street address in Batesville and the 6716 Curtis Road address at approximately 10:30 a.m.

“Terry Griffin was taken into custody without incident at the Browning Street location,” Whitten said and noted the arrest was the culmination of a lengthy drug investigation originating in Texas.

The seized 2001 Freightliner and 1999 Dorsey refrigerated trailer is being kept at the sheriff’s office. Whitten said the seized property was registered in Edlinburg, Texas.

Panola County Sheriff Dennis Darby praised officers involved in the arrest, noting that not only was it another good example of what can happen when different agencies  work together for a common goal, but it could well bring participating agencies much needed funds with possible forfeiture of the 18-wheeler and trailer.