United States Drug Enforcement Administration

COLUMBUS, Ohio - An investigation by federal, state and local law enforcement in Central Ohio has led to the arrest of 13 people on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin.

Carter M. Stewart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, James V. Allen, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement (DEA), Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Paul Pride, Columbus Police Chief Kim Jacobs, and Franklin County Sheriff Zach Scott announced the indictment today following early morning efforts to arrest and locate the defendants.

The indictment alleges that since January 2011 the group has conspired to distribute numerous kilograms of heroin. Those arrested also allegedly distributed or possessed with the intent to distribute numerous kilograms of cocaine. Multiple individuals arrested in the conspiracy also allegedly distributed or possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Investigators allege that members of the group purchased vehicles with proceeds from the alleged illegal drug activity or in an attempt to launder such proceeds.

“I applaud the combined efforts of law enforcement,” U.S. Attorney Stewart said. “We will continue to work to prevent the damage that illegal drug activity causes to our communities.”

"The Patrol is committed to fighting the war on drugs from the front lines by working collaboratively with the DEA and other law enforcement partners to bring to justice individuals and groups involved in criminal activity. Whether a citizen is traveling Ohio’s roadways, working or living within a community, our overarching goal is to make Ohio safe. Today’s operation is an example of just that,” stated Colonel Paul Pride, Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent.

U.S. Attorney Stewart commended the cooperative investigation by the local, state and federal law enforcement, as well as Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tim Prichard and Dave Bosley, who are prosecuting the case.

Charges contained in a complaint are allegations. All defendants should be presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.