Large scale marijuana distribution network dismantled

Stored firearms and cash in Indianapolis storage facilities

PRESS RELEASE

Indianapolis –United States Attorney Josh Minkler announced today federal charges against six Indianapolis-area residents for their role in a large-scale marijuana distribution network in Central Indiana. The group faces charges including conspiracy to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, money laundering and unlawful possession of a firearm.

“Drug dealing brings guns and violence into our communities,” said Minkler. “Those who feel they can deal drugs without consequences in this district should think again.”

Those arrested include:

Joseph P. Pickett Sr. a/k/a Jay, 46, Indianapolis

Darrell P. Pickett, 52, Indianapolis

Sheila Stepp, 54, Indianapolis

Leonard O. Allen Jr., 48, Mooresville

Kelly Jo Spinks Jr., 33, Speedway

William J. Belew Jr., 32, Martinsville

The indictment alleges, between June 2015 and March 2017, the drug trafficking organization (DTO) lead by Joseph Pickett Sr., Darrell Pickett and Spinks, travelled to California and obtained between 100 and 400 pounds of marijuana each trip, then transported it back to Indianapolis. It is alleged that on at least 20 occasions, members of the DTO flew by commercial airlines to California to obtain marijuana. They also drove a motor home to a destination in California for the same purpose.

Once in Indianapolis, the marijuana was placed in storage facilities on the Westside of Indianapolis. Members of the DTO would then remove various amounts from the storage facilities for redistribution.

In total, law enforcement confiscated 181 firearms, (seven of which were stolen in Indiana) 21 vehicles, two motor homes, 16 motorcycles, $19,000 in jewelry, over $4.5 million in cash and 280 pounds of high grade marijuana.

This case was investigate by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

“Drug trafficking contributes to the unstableness and violence we observe within our communities today,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Greg Westfall. “The DEA, through its core mission and its law enforcement partnerships bring safety to your neighborhoods by investigating and bringing to justice, criminal organizations that poison our streets with illegal drugs. The success of this case was a direct result of the teamwork and dedication to duty of the investigators and prosecutors who worked this investigation.”

“We are extremely thankful for our federal partnerships that continue to help us rid our streets of illegal narcotics,” said Chief Roach. “Federal, State, and Local law enforcement efforts will continue to keep the pressure on those who choose to participate in illegal narcotics selling in our community.”

According to Assistant United States Attorney Barry D. Glickman who is prosecuting this case for the government, Allen faces up to 10 years imprisonment, all other defendants face 10 years to life if convicted.

An indictment is only charge and not evidence of guilt. All defendants are considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in federal court.

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