SMITHS GROVE, Ky. – A serious incident involving suspected drug use in the presence of a 15-year-old juvenile has led to the arrest of two individuals and the discovery of a large quantity of drugs and firearms in Warren County.
The arrests came after an investigation by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, which responded to the report just before noon on Wednesday.
Complaint and Investigation Begin
According to Sheriff Brett Hightower, deputies were alerted to possible drug activity taking place inside a Smiths Grove home where a minor was present. Concerned for the teen’s safety, officers promptly began investigating and coordinated with the Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) to look into the situation.
After gathering sufficient information, law enforcement officials secured a search warrant for the residence on Will Bohannon Road.
Search of the Smiths Grove Residence
When deputies executed the warrant, they uncovered a substantial amount of illegal substances and weapons. Authorities say they found approximately 5.5 pounds of suspected marijuana, suspected methamphetamine, several firearms, and various items of drug paraphernalia believed to be used for the packaging and consumption of narcotics.
The presence of both drugs and firearms inside the home, particularly with a juvenile nearby, raised serious safety and legal concerns for investigators.
Arrests Made at the Scene
Two residents, identified as Tresea Inman, age 50, and Matthew West, age 45, both of Smiths Grove, were taken into custody without incident. Deputies transported them to the Warren County Regional Jail, where they were lodged pending court appearances, as per the reports.
Charges Against Tresea Inman
- Possession of a controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense (methamphetamine)
- Trafficking in marijuana (8 oz to <5 lbs), 1st offense
- Possession of drug paraphernalia – buy/possess
- Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon
Charges Against Matthew West
- Possession of a controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense (methamphetamine)
- Trafficking in marijuana (8 oz to <5 lbs), 1st offense
- Possession of drug paraphernalia – buy/possess
Multiple Agencies Assisted
Sheriff Hightower noted that the Smiths Grove Police Department and the Warren County Drug Task Force played key roles in the safe execution of the warrant and the overall investigation.
Their combined efforts helped ensure that all evidence was properly collected and that the residence was secured following the arrests.
Community Concerns and Ongoing Inquiry
The discovery of drugs and firearms in a home where a teenager was reportedly present has raised community concern about the spread of narcotics in small towns like Smiths Grove. Local residents have praised law enforcement for taking quick action to protect minors and curb potential trafficking activity in the area.
Authorities emphasized that this case serves as a reminder of how closely drug use, firearms possession, and child endangerment can intertwine in such investigations.
Investigation Continues
The Warren County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the case remains under active investigation. Officials say additional charges may be filed as the evidence is reviewed and processed by forensic experts.
No further information has been released regarding the 15-year-old involved, but DCBS is continuing to evaluate the child’s welfare and living conditions.
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Warren County Sheriff’s Office or the Warren County Drug Task Force as the investigation progresses.
What are your thoughts on this case in Smiths Grove? Do you think local authorities are doing enough to address drug activity in smaller communities? Share your opinions in the comments below — your perspective matters.
