LAWRENCE COUNTY – A Williams man is facing a high-level felony charge after Indiana State Police (ISP) used intercepted phone calls to link him to a significant drug trafficking operation in Lawrence County.
Kyle B. Stewart, 48, has been charged with conspiracy to deal methamphetamine, a Level 2 Felony, following an undercover investigation into a local drug network.
The case stems from a 2025 investigation into John Tegarden, who was suspected of dealing large quantities of methamphetamine while residing in Springville. In November 2025, the Lawrence Superior Court authorized the interception of Tegarden’s electronic communications, which eventually led detectives to Stewart.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed by ISP Detective Michael Z. Robbins, multiple conversations were recorded between Tegarden and Stewart regarding the price and quantity of drugs. During one call on November 19, 2025, Tegarden reportedly offered Stewart a “zip” (an ounce) of methamphetamine for $175. Stewart was recorded negotiating for a smaller amount, known as a “ball,” before discussing the possibility of an ounce if the deal was legitimate.
The investigation intensified on the night of November 19, when troopers observed a vehicle registered to Stewart leaving Tegarden’s residence. The female driver, identified as Tela Weldon, was followed by Trooper Chance Humphrey after she was seen crossing the center line and driving significantly under the speed limit.
Weldon was stopped in Avoca, where she was found to have methamphetamine. Subsequent wiretaps captured Stewart and Tegarden discussing safety and potential law enforcement activity in the area, further indicating Stewart’s knowledge of and involvement in the drug trafficking organization.
Detective Robbins noted that Stewart has a history of drug-related offenses in Lawrence County, including a 2011 conviction for felony dealing in methamphetamine and a 2021 conviction for felony possession of meth
Tegarden was previously arrested in November 2025 on multiple Level 2 felony charges related to the conspiracy. Police now allege that Stewart acted as a co-conspirator, utilizing Tegarden as his source of supply to facilitate further dealing in the community.
Stewart was arrested on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the probable cause affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
