Two Arrested After Stolen Purse Investigation Leads to Drug Discovery in Tyler County

Photos Courtesy of Tyler County Sheriff's Office

SPURGER, Texas — A reported purse theft in the Spurger area led to the arrest of two individuals and the discovery of methamphetamine following an investigation by the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office, according to a press release issued by Sheriff Bryan Weatherford.

On Sunday, December 21, 2025, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Tyler County deputies were patrolling the Spurger area when they were dispatched to the Spurger Family Dollar in reference to a stolen purse.

Deputies met with the victim, interviewed several witnesses, and reviewed store surveillance footage. Investigators identified a male suspect, later confirmed as William Conkle, who was seen taking possession of the purse. Deputies determined Conkle was accompanied by a female later identified as Jessica Persons, age 48, of Woodville.

Further investigation revealed Conkle had two active felony warrants out of Tyler County. With assistance from a Tyler County citizen, deputies located Conkle and Persons at a residence on County Road 4145.

Conkle was arrested on the outstanding felony warrants. Deputies also located the stolen purse in the possession of Persons. After obtaining consent to search the residence, deputies discovered approximately two grams of methamphetamine.

Conkle, 41, of Silsbee, was transported to the Tyler County Jail and charged with three felony counts of possession of a controlled substance, along with theft. Persons was also transported to the Tyler County Jail and charged with felony possession of a controlled substance and theft.

Justice of the Peace Tina Self set bond amounts totaling $87,500 for Conkle and $32,500 for Persons.

The investigation remains ongoing.