Police make arrests in smoke shop raids

Ten people were arrested June 21 on charges of possessing illegal "bath salts" — a synthetic drug banned by Texas state law — in a series of smoke shop raids near the Friendswood city limits.

A Friendswood Police Department press release stated officers with the Friendswood, Houston and Webster police departments took part in the raids, which resulted in the confiscation of tens of thousands of dollars worth of possible contraband as well as cash totaling $28,100.

All 10 individuals were booked Thursday morning into the Friendswood city jail and by Friday morning had been let out on bond, according to the release.

A police report noted that the arrests and confiscation of money and contraband are meant to interrupt the illegal sale of bath salts in the area.

Individuals interested in receiving email alerts from the city of Friendswood may register for the service at www.friendswood.com. Information and updates are also available on the city's website, at 281-996-3250 or on the Friendswood Information Channel, AM 1650.