Federal agents searched four addresses in Midlothian this week, including the S. 9th Street office of West Texas Crude Energy, LLC, an oil and gas development company. The FBI confirmed the operation, which was assisted by Midlothian police detectives and IRS investigators. No arrests were made, and police say there is no active threat to the public. Locations on Wisteria, Eagles Nest and Springer Road were also targeted.

The raids come as the company faces multiple investor lawsuits alleging its oil and gas operations were “a sham.” Court filings claim Texas Railroad Commission records show no active production on any well operated by West Texas Crude. A Springer Road resident who witnessed the activity said he was surprised something of that magnitude could happen in a neighborhood like theirs.

For a historic courthouse town that has grown into a busy DFW exurb, the case raises real questions about how energy companies attract local investors and whether warning signs get caught early enough. The investigation is ongoing and no charges have been filed. Have you ever invested in an oil and gas deal? What questions did you ask first? Tell us in the comments.