On August 4, 2025, Dallas Police responded to a shooting call in the 4500 block of Hamilton Avenue. The investigation was led by Dallas Police Gang Detectives who conducted a thorough investigation and identified 30-year-old Derek Betts as a suspect. Subsequently, search warrants were developed for additional locations associated with the investigation.
On September 9, 2025, a search warrant was executed in the 4500 block of Metropolitan Avenue with the assistance of the Dallas Police Department SWAT Unit and the Narcotics Unit. The search warrant resulted in the recovery of several firearms, a large quantity of controlled substances, and U.S. Currency.
Search Warrant Results
- 14 firearms
- Approximately 12.7 Kilograms of Marijuana
- Approximately 7 lbs. of Ecstasy/MDMA
- Approximately 90 oz of Promethazine
- $8,469.00 in U.S. currency
30-year-old Derek Betts was located and taken into custody for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, a Second Degree-Felony;
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, a Third Degree-Felony.
29-year-old Terrell Lockridge was also arrested on an outstanding warrant for Probation Violation – Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by Felon.
Both arrestees are documented gang members.
The successful outcome of this joint operation reflects the collaborative teamwork between the Gang Unit and the Narcotics Unit. This cohesive partnership exemplifies the dedication and the utmost professionalism of all officers involved and strengthens the bond of trust with the communities we serve by safely apprehending two high-impact offenders and enhancing the quality of life of our neighborhoods through the seizure of drugs and firearms.
The case will be submitted to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas for federal prosecution.
This investigation is documented under case number 111228-2025.