The Houston Police Department issues a search warrant for the city’s water treatment plant.

KINGWOOD, TX – On Friday morning, the Houston Police Department showed up on the grounds of the Kingwood Central Wastewater Treatment Plant with a search warrant, and the locals were excited.

“I’m glad to see it,” said Jody Ellis, who lives behind the building.

Investigators were on the scene looking for evidence of alleged wrongdoing related to sample testing and documents, according to Pro-Tem Mayor Dave Martin’s office.

HPD is not alone. The Texas Environmental Quality Commission also asks questions, Martin said.

How are community members feeling?

“If they break the law, they must answer before the courts,” said Diane Lansden, who lives near the facility.

While Lansden pointed out “really bad odors” from January, others pointed out what they visually noticed around the facility.

“Initially, you could see the bottom of that pond,” Ellis said, pointing to the brown water flowing out of the structure.

Residents like Gilles de Beamont are worried about how it all ends.

“This water goes into a canal, and the canal flows into Lake Houston,” De Beamont said.

Mayor Pro-Tem Martin, representing the district, met with KPRC 2 Investigates on Friday afternoon to discuss the company the city has contracted to operate the plant.

“Infarmark has always done a good job for us. They really were a good partner for the city. I am extremely disappointed with how this happened and where we are today,” Martin said.

Inframark’s statement in response to HPD’s criminal investigation reads as follows:

“We are working with the authorities to conduct a thorough review of the operation of the treatment plant. We continue to take steps to ensure there are no negative impacts on society or the environment.”