Operation in Wharton Leads to Arrest in Major Money Laundering Case

Raul Melendez, 48, of Brownsville, Texas, was arrested on February 26, 2025, on charges of Money Laundering (between $150,000 and $300,000), a Second-Degree Felony.

The arrest occurred after a traffic stop conducted by Fayette County Sergeant Randy Thumann, a member of a Criminal Interdiction Task Force, near US Highway 59/I-69 and FM 102.

During the stop, Sergeant Thumann, assisted by Wharton Police Sergeant Justin Pannell and K9 “Kolt”, discovered the funds concealed within the vehicle operated by Melendez.

The Wharton Police Department commended Sergeant Thumann, Sergeant Pannell, and K9 “Kolt” for their efforts in combating illegal smuggling.