News
Repeat Drug Trafficker sentenced to 40 Years after Courthouse Departure
The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office secured a 40-year prison sentence for a repeat drug trafficker following a jury conviction and a significant overnight manhunt after the defendant fled the courthouse during trial.
Michael Dean Wetch, 59, was convicted of Possession with Intent to Deliver, a first-degree felony, on January 21, 2026, and sentenced the following day to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Erin Delano and Chief Prosecutor Brittany Hansford. The trial began on January 20, 2026, and was presided over by Judge Hafley, sitting for Judge Maginnis.
Wetch, a habitual offender with two prior prison sentences for possession of controlled substances, was arrested following a traffic stop during which officers discovered approximately 16 grams of methamphetamine. At trial, a witness testified that the drugs belonged to her, despite not being present at the time of the traffic stop and having never come forward to law enforcement prior to trial. Prosecutors presented extensive digital evidence from Wetch’s cellphone that contradicted that testimony and established his role in drug distribution.
Jurors heard evidence from approximately 11 separate message threads documenting repeated purchases and sales of narcotics and firearms over the year preceding his arrest. The evidence included conversations discussing the exchange of drugs for food stamps, further demonstrating an ongoing pattern of drug trafficking activity.
During a recess while the jury was deliberating, Wetch left the courthouse. When his absence was discovered, Judge Hafley issued an order for his arrest, prompting a coordinated manhunt involving deputy constables from Montgomery County Precinct 4, a Texas Ranger, and officers from the Humble Police Department. After approximately 10 hours of searching, Wetch was located and taken into custody around 1:30 a.m. He was arrested for bail jumping and returned to court for sentencing later that same day. During the punishment phase, the jury heard evidence of eight prior convictions, including two prior prison sentences, as well as additional evidence of drug and firearms trafficking. The jury returned a 40-year sentence after deliberating for less than 30 minutes.
The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office commends the dedication and professionalism of the Montgomery County Precinct 4 deputy constables, Texas Rangers, and Humble Police Department officers whose coordinated efforts led to the defendant’s apprehension and accountability.
District Attorney Mike Holley added, “This sentence reflects our commitment to holding repeat offenders accountable and protecting the safety of our community. When defendants repeatedly choose to profit from dangerous drugs, Montgomery County will respond with robust prosecution and real consequences.”
Assistant District Attorney Erin Delano said, “Drug dealing is a way of life for Michael Dean Wetch. The work by the officers on this case and the jury’s verdict show that Montgomery County and its law enforcement agencies are committed to stopping the distribution of illegal narcotics.”
Source: Laura Smith, Chief of Communications, Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office
