HOUSTON – Two Houston teachers are facing drug-related charges.
Percy Melton, 40, was arrested Tuesday after a traffic stop on Interstate 10 between Vinton and Sulpher, La. That's about 30 miles from the Texas border. Investigators said when Melton began to act suspiciously during the traffic stop, they asked for permission to search the car and she refused.
A drug dog was brought in and was alerted to the odor of the drugs in the car's trunk, officials said. The 53 pounds of drugs were found wrapped in cellophane and trash bags inside a duffel bag, investigators said. Detectives said the marijuana has a street value of more than $120,000.
Melton was arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center and charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.
Melton is a science teacher at Elsik High School, 12601 High Star, in the Alief Independent School District.
School officials said they have not received any official confirmation that Melton was arrested in Louisiana. They said upon confirmation, Melton will be placed on administrative leave.
Another Alief ISD teacher, 34-year-old Sirma Frederick, has not been seen for more than a month.
Investigators said a neighbor became concerned in July and police went to check her house. Officers said they found the back door open and 27 pounds of marijuana in a closet.
Frederick teaches at Butewig Intermediate, 12570 Richmond Ave. School administrators said she will be relieved of duty once police find her and arrest her.
The school year begins on Monday for employees.