Large drug bust uncovers meth, guns, and explosives in Athens

ATHENS, Tenn. (WDEF) — Several organizations came together to uncover a large drug bust in McMinn County.

A search warrant was served on August 7, 2024 for the 200 Block of Kenneth Street and a storage unit in Athens, Tennessee.

This residence belonged to that of a Daniel Lance Buis, and the unit was tied to him as well.

Sheriff Tommy Jones

Officials obtained 540 grams of methamphetamine, 41 firearms, three improvised explosive devices, several other drug paraphernalia, and over $40,000 dollars in US currency.

4 out of 41 firearms seized were stolen.

Daniel Lance Buis was arrested and charged with the following:

• Possession of Methamphetamine for Resale greater than 300 grams
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of an Improvised Explosive Device
• Possession of Firearm during the Commission of a Dangerous Felony
• Maintaining a drug dwelling for the use or keep of a controlled substance
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

This was a joint investigation that involved the following organizations:

• 10th Judicial Drug Task Force
• Athens Police Department
• McMinn County Sheriff’s Office
• Monroe County Sheriff’s Office
• Sweetwater Police Department
• Tennessee Bureau of Investigation