Eleven individuals have been indicted in a federal case alleging their involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy in Indianapolis and surrounding areas. The charges come after a coordinated law enforcement operation, resulting in the arrest of 10 suspects and the seizure of firearms and drugs, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana.
The individuals charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine are: Matthew R.P. Fishman from Bloomington; Megan L. Gaskin from Indianapolis; Joseph A. Grubb from Bloomfield; Amanda N. Hornaday from Indianapolis; Candace L. Rich from Indianapolis; Ashley N. Russell from Indianapolis; Colton K. Shorkey from Franklin; James M. Sublett Jr. from Westfield; James L. Tyus Jr. from Indianapolis; Kelly A. Willis from Indianapolis; and Thomas R. Winkley also from Indianapolis.
This operation involved 16 agencies executing 22 arrest and search warrants at various locations across Central Indiana on November 20, 2024. While ten suspects were apprehended, Joseph A. Grubb remains at large.
The indictment alleges that between February 2024 and November 14, 2024, the defendants conspired to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, with James L. Tyus Jr. purportedly leading the operation supplied by James M. Sublett Jr., while others acted as dealers.
The alleged transactions occurred at multiple sites around Indianapolis such as parking lots, gas stations, apartment complexes, motels, and a gentleman’s club.
If found guilty, each defendant could face life imprisonment.
The investigation was conducted by several agencies including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Metropolitan Drug Task Force, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), United States Marshal’s Service (USMS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), among others.
Zachary A. Myers, U.S Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana stated: “Getting deadly drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl off our streets is a top priority for our office.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration with various law enforcement partners to identify drug traffickers and hold them accountable in federal court.
Assistant U.S Attorneys Bradley Blackington and Jeremy Fugate are prosecuting this case.
It is important to note that an indictment or criminal complaint consists only of allegations until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
