Drug dealer sentenced to 30 years in prison

ELLIS COUNTY – Patrick Van Cox, 47, Fort Worth was sentenced to 30 years in prison on Aug, 3 for two cases of possessing a controlled substance with intent to deliver, and two cases of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, according to Ellis County District Attorney’s office.

The sentences for the offenses will run concurrently.

In November 2020, a Waxahachie police officer conducted a traffic stop for a traffic violation.

Cox was the driver of the car. 

During the stop, the officer seized over 20 grams of cocaine and discovered Cox had a firearm in his possession, an additional offense since Cox was a convicted felon. 

Cox also had small plastic baggies matching the baggies containing cocaine, two cell phones, a digital scale, a razor blade, and blue nitrile gloves. 

He was arrested and charged. 

After spending a year in the Ellis County Jail awaiting trial for these offenses, Cox was able to bond out.

While out on bond, Waxahachie Police Department received several tips Cox was selling crack cocaine from a Waxahachie residence. 

In February 2023, the Waxahachie Problem Directed Response Team executed a search warrant at the Waxahachie residence. 

Cox was found in the house and was again arrested for the same two offenses he had previously been charged. 

During the search, police collected over two pounds of cocaine, a firearm, a lock box with cash, small plastic baggies, drug paraphernalia, and razor blades with cocaine residue. 

A large pot with water and cocaine residue, commonly used to cook crack cocaine, was also seized from the house.

“The drug trade brings danger and misery to so many of our citizens,” stated District Attorney Ann Montgomery. 

“Those dealing illegal drugs in Ellis County will not be tolerated. 

“My office will continue to support Ellis County law enforcement as our peace officers work to keep dangerous dealers, like Cox, off our streets and out of our communities.”