Multi-agency drug investigation leads to four arrests
ATHENS, Tenn. (WDEF) — Four people have been arrested following a months-long investigation into a methamphetamine and fentanyl distribution operation in Athens.
The 10th Judicial District Drug Task Force requested Athens Police and McMinn County deputies to make a traffic stop. Upon searching the vehicle with their K-9, authorities found meth, fentanyl tablets and firearms on April 11.
The DTF, TBI and local law enforcement then served a search warrant at a house on South Congress Parkway.
Authorities located a total of nine pounds of meth, more than 3,100 fentanyl tablets, eight grams of fentanyl/Xylazine powder and three guns. One of those guns was stolen, according to the DTF.
They arrested Marc Allen Blair, Jason Keith Lemke and Jerremy Scott Ledbetter on drug charges. Authorities also arrested Beth Lunsford for probation violation.
The suspects face the following charges.
Marc Blair
- Possession of meth for resale over 300 grams
- Possession of fentanyl for resale over 150 grams
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
Jason Lemke
- Possession of meth for resale over 300 grams
- Possession of fentanyl for resale over 150 grams
- Possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony
- Possession of firearms by a convicted felon
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
Jeremy Ledbetter
- Possession of meth for resale
The DTF said it is still investigating. It expects more arrests and charges to come.
“This is a fine example of how cooperation amongst our state and local partner agencies is vital in making a difference in our community,” said Chief Fred K. Schultz. “The dedication to service is obvious in the results of this operation. We are proud of our contributions to the Drug Task Force and look forward to continued success.”
