POLICE ARREST FOUR MEN IN HOUSTON OVERDOSE DEATHS

HOUSTON - Four people have been arrested and accused of selling drugs
associated with some of the 16 drug overdose deaths last weekend caused by
a deadly cocaine-heroin mixture that appeared on Houston-area streets.

"Based on what we know now, people purchased what they thought was cocaine
when it turned out to be a mixture of cocaine and heroin," Houston police
Capt. Richard Holland said Friday.

Holland said three of the men in custody have admitted delivering drugs to
16-year-old Jennifer Rivera, who died Sunday.

The three, ranging in age from 19 to 23 years old, could face federal
charges of distribution of a controlled substance.

A fourth suspect was arrested Thursday by the Harris County Sheriff's
Department. The 25-year-old has been charged in state court with possession
with the intent to deliver. He, too, could face federal charges.

Sheriff's Maj. Juan Jorge said the fourth suspect told investigators he
delivered drugs to three of the dead victims and others who did not die.

None of the suspects' names had been released Friday afternoon.

The four could be charged with more serious counts as the investigation
continues.

"We'll wait for a final ruling of the medical examiner's office before
taking these charges any further," Holland said.

Holland said he hopes for more arrests. Officers are not sure if the drug
mixture continues to be sold, though no further deaths have been reported
after the initial spate last weekend.

The Harris County medical examiner, Dr. Joye Carter, has warned drug users
to be careful of substances bought on the street and to be sure they had
access to medical attention.

"There is no quality control to this stuff," said Drug Enforcement
Administration special agent-in-charge John Gartland, whose agency assisted
local authorities. "When you buy it, you don't know what you're getting.
Don't do it: People will sell anything for a price."