Investigation leads to recovery of stolen oilfield equipment

RUSK COUNTY – Two East Texans were arrested in connection to oilfield equipment theft and the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office said their investigation also led to the seizure of drugs and firearms. According to our news partner KETK, deputies followed a lead on Tuesday in reference to an oilfield theft and they located the stolen equipment. Officials said the estimated value of the equipment they recovered is $5,000. A search warrant was then served for a residence on the same road where the equipment was found, the sheriff’s office said.

“Seized during the search warrant was suspected methamphetamine, suspected marijuana, and firearms,” the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office said.

The resident of the home, identified as 38-year-old Skkylar Sanchez, was arrested as well as 45-year-old Hector Arellano, both of Henderson. Both men were charged with tampering with gas and oil operations. Sanchez was also charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and unlawful possession of a firearm. He is being held at the Rusk County Jail on bonds totaling $49,500. Arellano is also being held at the Rusk County Jail on a $25,000 bond.

“This is currently an active investigation, and we anticipate additional arrests as the investigation continues,” the sheriff’s office said.