Chambers County Deputies Apprehend Suspects in Stolen Vehicle Pursuit, Uncover Large Methamphetamine Haul

In an incident on the afternoon of December 29, 2024, Chambers County deputies successfully located and apprehended two individuals in connection with a stolen vehicle on Interstate 10 near Winnie, Texas.

At approximately 12:49 P.M., deputies identified a 2010 Ford Escape traveling westbound, reported stolen from Temple, TX. The driver, Steven Harrison of Kerrville, Texas, and passenger Martin Benavides of League City, TX, were inside the vehicle. Despite deputies’ attempts to stop the vehicle, Harrison refused, leading to a pursuit that concluded on FM 565 near Old River.

During the pursuit, both occupants discarded multiple large quantities of methamphetamine from the windows. Deputies recovered 132.5 grams of methamphetamine on Harrison’s person and within the vehicle, along with other prescription narcotics.

Following the investigation, it was evident that both Harrison and Benavides were involved in the manufacture and/or delivery of illegal narcotics. Chambers County Sheriff’s Deputies filed charges against them as follows:

Harrison:

1. Evading Arrest or Detention with Vehicle – $50,000.00 bond
2. Evading Arrest or Detention – $5,000.00 bond
3. Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance – $150,000.00 bond
4. Tampering with Evidence – $25,000.00 bond
5. Unauthorized Use of Vehicle – $10,000.00 bond

Benavides:

1. Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance – $150,000.00 bond
2. Tampering with Evidence – $25,000.00 bond

“I appreciate the hard work of my Sheriff’s Deputies and the assistance provided by Texas DPS and Mont Belvieu Police Department in apprehending both of these individuals.” – Said Sheriff Brian Hawthorne