On May 1, 2025, the Austin Police Department (APD) North Metro Tactical Response Unit, in partnership with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division, conducted a proactive criminal enforcement operation. The operation targeted areas in North Austin identified as high-crime zones, particularly those with high rates of violent offenses and narcotics activity.
The operation focused on the vicinity of Thurmond Street and North Lamar Boulevard. Officers observed individuals engaging in open-air narcotics transactions at the Thurmond Heights Apartment Complex. Multiple individuals were identified as being involved in illegal activities, along with a specific apartment unit linked to these offenses.
As a result, several arrests were made. Neshea Harper, aged 30; Chaz Young, aged 39; Edwin Middleton, aged 34; and Kevin Abraham, aged 30 were taken into custody. A search warrant was executed for Neshea Harper’s apartment within Thurmond Heights. This led to the seizure of five handguns and approximately 1.5 ounces of crack cocaine along with 9 grams of methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Further charges are expected to be pursued related to this investigation.
