INDIANA — In a coordinated early morning operation on Wednesday, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with support from state and local agencies, executed drug busts at 11 locations across central Indiana, including a Bloomington and Bloomfield man.
The DEA described the operation as a “substantial drug trafficking operation,” resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of significant quantities of illegal drugs and firearms.
During the operation, 10 of the 11 individuals targeted were arrested. Authorities seized eight firearms, along with fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana.
The following individuals were indicted and charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine:
- Matthew R.P. Fishman, 38, of Bloomington
- Megan L. Gaskin, 29, of Indianapolis
- Joseph A. Grubb, 37, of Bloomfield
- Amanda N. Hornaday, 40, of Indianapolis
- Candace L. Rich, 44, of Indianapolis
- Ashley N. Russell, 38, of Indianapolis
- Colton K. Shorkey, 33, of Franklin
- James M. Sublett Jr., 39, of Westfield
- James L. Tyus Jr., 39, of Indianapolis
- Kelly A. Willis, 52, of Indianapolis
- Thomas R. Winkley, 45, of Indianapolis
According to the release from the DEA, Grubb is the only individual not taken into custody and is now a fugitive.
According to the indictment, from February 2024 through November 14, 2024, all eleven defendants allegedly conspired together to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. James L. Tyus Jr. reportedly acted as the leader of the operation and was supplied methamphetamine by James M. Sublett Jr. The remaining nine defendants allegedly served as dealers and distributors.
The alleged meth deals took place at several locations across Indianapolis, including parking lots, gas stations, apartment complexes, motels, and a gentleman’s club.
U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers, emphasized the importance of the operation. “Getting deadly drugs like methamphetamine and fentanyl off our streets is a top priority for our office. That is why working with our partners at DEA, IMPD, and across federal, state, and local law enforcement is so important,” Myers stated. “We are committed to identifying drug traffickers and holding them accountable in federal court.”
If convicted, each of the individuals charged in connection with this operation faces up to life in federal prison. Authorities continue to investigate the drug trafficking network and are pursuing leads on additional suspects.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
