Polk County, Texas – May 9, 2025 — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has announced additional arrests tied to a major narcotics investigation, following the initial arrest of Charlie Joe King III earlier this month. In collaboration with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division, local authorities have taken several individuals into custody as part of a coordinated crackdown on illegal drug activity in the Livingston area and throughout Polk County.
The latest arrests stem from a multi-agency investigation targeting the manufacture and distribution of controlled substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and synthetic marijuana.
Individuals Arrested
The following individuals were taken into custody during the operation:
Michael Eugene Bunting III Manufacture/Delivery of Controlled Substance PG 1 >4G <200G (Cocaine) Manufacture/Delivery of Controlled Substance PG 1 >4G <200G (Methamphetamine) Joe Thomas Harrison Manufacture/Delivery of Controlled Substance PG 1 (Cocaine) Abandon/Endanger Child Pending warrant for Manufacture/Delivery of Controlled Substance PG 1 (Cocaine) Gladis Ortega Cruz (Warrants Pending Issuance) Possession of Controlled Substance PG 1 >4G <200G (Cocaine) Tampering with Evidence Abandon/Endanger Child Desiree Elizabeth King Initially arrested for Abandon/Endanger a Child Additional charges: Possession of Controlled Substance PG 1 >400G (Cocaine) Possession of Controlled Substance PG 1 >4G <200G (Fentanyl) Possession of Controlled Substance PG 1 >4G <200G (Methamphetamine) Possession of Controlled Substance PG 1 >4G <200G (Crack Cocaine) Possession of Controlled Substance PG 2A >5LBS <50LBS (Synthetic Marijuana)
Sheriff’s Statement
“These arrests highlight the importance of cooperation between agencies and our unwavering commitment to holding those accountable who profit from poisoning our communities,” said Sheriff Byron Lyons. “We will continue to prioritize the safety of our citizens and protect our children from the dangers associated with illegal drug activity.”
The arrests serve as a reminder of the continued efforts by law enforcement to combat the distribution of dangerous substances and ensure community safety.
Community Involvement Encouraged
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected drug activity. Tips can be submitted anonymously via the Sheriff’s Office website or by contacting the office directly.
Disclaimer: All individuals mentioned in this report are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Charges listed are based on probable cause established during the investigation.
