COLUMBUS — A targeted investigation into suspected drug dealing led to the arrest of four individuals on Wednesday after law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in the 500 block of Parkway Drive.
The operation was conducted by the Columbus Police Department’s SWAT Team following an inquiry led by the Bartholomew County Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team (JNET). Investigators launched the probe after receiving community tips and intelligence regarding illicit drug sales operating out of the Parkway Drive home.
Upon searching the premises, officers recovered evidence including suspected methamphetamine, spice (synthetic cannabinoids), marijuana, and various items of drug paraphernalia.
Four Columbus residents were taken into custody during the raid.
Bobby Roberts, 65, and Madalene Roberts, 65, both of Columbus, face preliminary felony charges of dealing in a controlled substance, dealing in methamphetamine, and maintaining a common nuisance. They were also charged with misdemeanor counts of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Amber David, 41, of Columbus, was arrested on a misdemeanor charge of visiting a common nuisance.
Austin Witsman, 37, of Columbus, was arrested on a misdemeanor charge of visiting a common nuisance.
All suspects were transported to the Bartholomew County Jail for booking. Under Indiana law, maintaining a common nuisance involves knowingly allowing a structure to be used for unlawful drug activities, while visiting a common nuisance applies to individuals present at such a location, knowing drug activity is occurring.
The investigation was spearheaded by the Bartholomew County Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team, an inter-agency task force comprising officers from the Columbus Police Department, deputies from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office, and representatives from the Bartholomew County Prosecutor’s Office. The unit was established to pool regional law enforcement resources and target the illegal manufacture, distribution, and abuse of controlled substances throughout Columbus and Bartholomew County.
Authorities remind the public that criminal charges are merely accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Community members with information regarding suspected illegal drug activity can contact local law enforcement or submit confidential tips to the police department.
