United States Attorney Minkler leads efforts to seize street drugs from Indianapolis drug traffickers

INDIANAPOLIS –United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced that a Complaint was filed naming two defendants in drug trafficking offenses. Christopher Deeren was charged with drug possession with intent to distribute and/or distribute methamphetamine. Arthur Miles was charged with drug possession with intent to distribute and/or distribution of MDMA (ecstasy), methamphetamine and cocaine.

“In the wake of the opioid epidemic, our federal prosecutors and investigators continue to fight street battles involving the large scale distribution of addictive illicit drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and in this case ecstasy or MDMA,” said Minkler. “We implore parents and the community at large to give careful consideration to the devastation and havoc these street drugs are having on our society and to partner with law enforcement through anonymous tips whenever possible.”

In 2019, federal investigators learned information about Deeren and initiated an investigation, followed by the execution of a federal search warrant at Dereen’s residence. Deeren and Miles were located at the residence and were arrested for operating a drug trafficking organization in the Brightwood neighborhood on the north side of Indianapolis, Indiana. Agents seized approximately 300.2 grams of methamphetamine, 320.4 grams of cocaine, 15,000 MDMA pills and two rifles.

“DEA working in concert with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and United States Attorney's Office will continue to identify subjects involved in selling/distributing illegal drugs including MDMA, methamphetamine, cocaine and other illicit drugs,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Gannon. “The residents of Indianapolis should be cautioned that drug dealers deal poison and prey on the weak, and cause enormous harm to our communities. Indianapolis drug dealers are put on notice. We will arrest you and ensure you are brought to justice, swiftly.” 

“The distribution of illicit drugs causes violence that impacts our lives, families and communities,” said IMPD Chief Bryan Roach. “Collaborative and explicit investigative/enforcement of those who profit on the distribution and sale of illegal and highly addictive drugs will continue to be a focus of the collective law enforcement communities. Equally as important is ensuring law enforcement continues to collaborate with community-based social services to aid those struggling with addiction and substance abuse challenges.”

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

According to Assistant United States Attorney Pamela Domash, who is prosecuting this case for the government, Deeren and Miles each face up to 40 years’ imprisonment if convicted.

A Complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape and strengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This prosecution demonstrates the Office’s firm commitment to prosecuting those who engage in violent crime involving drugs and firearms. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan 2.2