Byron Fontenot, 35, and Amanda Metcalf, 31, both residents of Buna, were arrested on Monday morning, October 12, 2026, following the discovery of suspected illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia inside a vehicle in Buna, Texas. The arrests by the Jasper County Sheriff's Office stemmed from a deputy's response to an earlier theft complaint.
Deputy Tipton was dispatched to the 200 block of County Road 910 in Buna at approximately 5:25 a.m. for a reported theft. Prior to arrival, dispatch advised that the individual suspected in the theft had five active warrants outstanding from Jasper County. Upon Deputy Tipton's arrival at the location, a vehicle was observed attempting to leave the scene. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Mr. Fontenot, and Ms. Metcalf was the passenger.
During contact with Mr. Fontenot and Ms. Metcalf, Deputy Tipton detected the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. This detection prompted a subsequent search, which uncovered several items identified as drug paraphernalia. These included a marijuana grinder, a marijuana pipe, and a methamphetamine pipe. Deputies also located a usable amount of marijuana. Additionally, a crystalline substance contained within a plastic baggie, believed to be methamphetamine, was found.
As a result of these findings, both Mr. Fontenot and Ms. Metcalf were arrested. They were each charged with possession of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 1/1B, less than one gram, which is classified as a state jail felony under Texas law. Both individuals also face charges of possession of marijuana, less than two ounces, a Class B misdemeanor, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class C misdemeanor.
Mr. Fontenot received additional charges beyond those related to drug possession. He was charged with driving while license invalid, a Class C misdemeanor. Furthermore, he was arrested on the five outstanding warrants that had been active in Jasper County, as previously noted by dispatch.
According to Jasper County Sheriff Chuck Havard, the initial incident that led to the deputy's response was a theft complaint. However, Sheriff Havard confirmed that the original complainant ultimately chose not to pursue charges related to the theft. Sheriff Havard underscored his department's commitment to address illicit activities within the county, stating that he and his staff "remain committed to combating criminal activity throughout Jasper County."
Both Byron Fontenot and Amanda Metcalf are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.