All of the individuals arrested are suspected of having ties to drug dealers in and around the Winchester area. Of those arrested, Aaron Churchwell, 30, Michael Holman, 35, Kristen Reed, 25, Larry Scott, 56, Tracy Horton, 41, Bobby Brown, 57, and Jesse Staton, 61, all of Winchester, Tennessee, were indicted by a federal grand jury in Chattanooga, Tennessee on federal drug charges. Other federal defendants are pending arrest and their names and other pertinent information will be released upon their initial appearance before the United States Magistrate Judge. A list of each individual charge with the potential penalty, if convicted, is listed on the attached summary sheet. Initial appearances are scheduled for Wednesday, January 7, in United States District Court in Chattanooga, before the Honorable William B. Carter, United States Magistrate Judge.

United States Attorney Dedrick said, "Winchester and the surrounding areas have been plagued by drug activity and associated criminal activity. This cooperative endeavor between federal, state and local authorities will assist in the effort to curtail drug activity. Drug dealers are on notice that if their activities violate federal or state law they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent. "U.S. Attorney Dedrick also thanked Sheriff Tim Fuller and his personnel for their outstanding support and participation in the investigation and assistance given to the TBI and ATF. "The citizens of Franklin County are fortunate to have such a fine professional department under the leadership of Sheriff Fuller," Dedrick said.

Members of the public are reminded that these are only charges and that every person is presumed innocent until their guilt has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

For additional information, please contact United States Attorney Russ Dedrick, 865-545-4167, AUSA Perry H. Piper, 423-752-5140, or Public Information Officer Sharry Dedman-Beard, 865-545-4167.

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