3 Arrested in Livingston for Drugs, Stolen Goods

Suspects allegedly fled police, had meth and stolen welding machine in vehicle

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:49am

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Three people were arrested in Livingston, Texas after police stopped a vehicle connected to an outstanding warrant and found methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a stolen welding machine inside. The driver initially fled on foot but was quickly apprehended, while a passenger then took over driving the vehicle before it was stopped again by authorities.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combating drug-related crimes and property theft in smaller Texas communities, where stolen goods and illicit substances can be easily transported between neighboring towns.

The details

According to the Livingston Police Department, officers spotted a vehicle near a Dairy Queen that was linked to a person with active warrants. When they attempted to stop the car, the driver, identified as Ivy Donaghue, fled on foot but was quickly caught. A passenger, Jo Groze, then got into the driver's seat and drove away, but the vehicle was later located and stopped by a Polk County deputy and DPS trooper. Inside, they found methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a welding machine that had been reported stolen from Robertson County. A third passenger, Christopher Andrews, was also in the car. All three suspects now face charges of evading, drug possession, and theft.

  • The incident occurred on April 1, 2026 in Livingston, Texas.

The players

Ivy Donaghue

The 43-year-old driver of the vehicle who initially fled on foot from police but was quickly apprehended.

Jo Groze

The 30-year-old passenger who took over driving the vehicle after Donaghue fled, but was later stopped by authorities.

Christopher Andrews

The 34-year-old passenger also in the vehicle when it was stopped by police.

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The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in small Texas towns when it comes to combating the interrelated issues of drug abuse, property crime, and suspects fleeing from police. It also highlights the need for continued coordination between local and state authorities to address these persistent public safety concerns.