Texas Authorities Break Up Rural Moonshine Operation

NEW CHAPEL HILL (CBSDFW.COM/AP) - Investigators say an alleged moonshine operation has been broken up in rural East Texas.

Smith County authorities on Wednesday confiscated two stills at a site near the town of New Chapel Hill and questioned a property owner.

Authorities seized about 50 gallons of suspected homemade alcohol, often referred to as "white lightning", propane tanks and glass containers.

Constable Dennis Taylor says a pint jar of moonshine sells for about $100.

The Smith County Sheriff's Office did not immediately provide further information Thursday on any charges against the property owner.

The investigation began four months ago when a teenager was found passed out on the side of a road after allegedly drinking moonshine.

Authorities say a tip led to some property where the stills were discovered.

Officials warn that making moonshine can be very dangerous, since the product is not only highly flammable but can easily be contaminated.

New Chapel is located 100 miles southeast of Dallas.

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