Drug bust results in charges

An investigation that has spanned nearly two years in Meigs County has netted 18 suspects accused of drug charges.

Authorities conducted undercover stings to identify potential targets contributing to illicit drug activity, primarily involving methamphetamine across Meigs County, according to a news release.

“I appreciate all the hard work of all agencies involved in helping to fight the drug problem in Meigs County,” Meigs County Sheriff Jackie Melton wrote in the release.

“The Sheriff’s Office makes it a high priority to target drug dealers in our community because other crimes, such as burglaries and thefts, are directly related to drugs, as well as overdoses from the drugs themselves and the families hurt by their loved ones’ addictions.”

The investigation began in January 2016 and involved the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the Meigs County Sheriff’s Office, the Decatur Police Department and the Tennessee Department of Correction.

“This is another step in our common goal to decrease illegal drug activity in our community,” said Chief Monty Rowland, of the Decatur Police Department. “An operation of this nature requires cooperation among several different agencies. Thanks to all who made this a success.”

The Meigs County Grand Jury returned indictments on Monday, charging 18 people in connection to the ongoing investigation. A warrant has also been secured for a 19th individual in connection to a probation violation.

“Yet again, with this latest effort, we’re showing TBI’s continued commitment to target the drug issues impacting communities across Tennessee,” TBI Drug Investigation Division Assistant Director T.J. Jordan wrote in the release. “It doesn’t matter what type of illegal drugs you’re [peddling], or if you are a big or small fish in the drug trafficking industry, TBI Special Agents are looking for you.”