Lawrence County, IN – A multi-agency investigation has culminated in the largest methamphetamine seizure in Lawrence County history, resulting in the arrest of three individuals facing multiple Level 2 felony dealing charges, authorities announced.
The operation, led by the Indiana State Police (ISP) Drug Enforcement Section with critical assistance from the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), targeted an alleged large-scale drug distribution network operating in Lawrence and surrounding counties.
High-Speed Pursuit Leads to Arrest of Two Suspects
The operation reached a critical point on the night of Wednesday, November 26, when law enforcement attempted to stop a Chevrolet SUV occupied by James Barber, 39, of Ellettsville, and Terra Barber, 45, of Ellettsville.
The SUV initially attempted to evade police, reaching high speeds in an effort to escape. During the pursuit, James Barber was observed dumping large quantities of methamphetamine out of the vehicle window in an attempt to destroy evidence.
Once the vehicle was stopped, both James and Terra Barber were taken into custody, and authorities recovered over five pounds of methamphetamine from the roadside and inside the SUV. Investigators also found more than three ounces of cocaine.
Search Warrants Uncover Additional Drugs
The investigation continued into the early morning of Thursday, November 27, when detectives executed search warrants at two Lawrence County locations:
- Residence of John Tegarden, 48, of Springville, on the 5000 block of State Road 54
- Second location on the 100 block of North Pike Road
These searches yielded nearly two additional pounds of methamphetamine, over half an ounce of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, a small amount of marijuana, hypodermic syringes, and other drug paraphernalia connected to narcotics distribution.
Charges Filed Against Three Suspects
All three suspects were arrested and booked into the Lawrence County Jail with charges as follows:
- John Tegarden, 48, of Springville: Dealing methamphetamine, conspiracy to deal meth, conspiracy to deal a narcotic drug, possession of meth, and possession of a narcotic drug
- James Barber, 39, of Ellettsville: Conspiracy to deal methamphetamine and conspiracy to deal a narcotic drug
- Terra Barber, 45, of Ellettsville: Conspiracy to deal methamphetamine and conspiracy to deal a narcotic drug
Authorities note that Level 2 felonies in Indiana carry potential sentences of 10 to 30 years in prison and fines up to $10,000, according to the reports.
Sheriff Praises Multi-Agency Efforts
Sheriff Greg Day lauded the collaboration and dedication of all involved agencies, stating, “The amount of time and effort investigators poured into this case is nothing short of amazing. The impact of seizing such a large amount of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin/fentanyl in our rural community cannot be overstated. These investigators and involved officers from multiple agencies have saved lives.”
Other agencies that assisted in the operation included the Martinsville Police Department, Bloomington Police Department, and Morgan County Sheriff’s Office.
Community Encouraged to Report Suspicious Activity
Authorities urge residents with information on illegal drug activity to submit tips through the Indiana State Police, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office tip line, or the Sheriff’s App. Tips can also be submitted via the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Tip Line.
Officials remind the public that those facing criminal charges are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and accusations alone do not indicate guilt.
What Are Your Thoughts?
This historic drug bust has stunned the Lawrence County community. Do you think multi-agency operations are the most effective way to combat large-scale drug trafficking?
What more can be done to prevent narcotics distribution in rural communities?
Share your opinions in the comments — your perspective helps strengthen community safety.
