Eight suspects face federal charges in Southern Illinois methamphetamine investigation

BENTON, Ill., (KBSI) — Eight individuals face federal charges for allegedly distributing methamphetamine or possessing it with intent to distribute in southern Illinois.

A federal grand jury returned indictments against the eight, who are accused of participating in a methamphetamine distribution network.

The indictments follow a two-week coordinated operation led by the FBI’s Southern Illinois TOC-West Task Force, which targeted crime throughout southern Illinois.

The investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies and resulted in the seizure of firearms, narcotics and U.S. currency.

Those indicted include:

— Sarah L. Elverd, 35, of Centralia, on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

— Alan D. Fleming, 41, of Mount Vernon, on four counts of distribution of methamphetamine.

— John A. Fowler, 49, of Mount Vernon, on eight counts of distribution of methamphetamine.

— James B. Lockwood, 43, of Mount Vernon, on four counts of distribution of methamphetamine.

— Cedric R. Long, 32, of Bluford, on two counts of distribution of methamphetamine.

— Christopher L. Webb, 38, of Mount Vernon, on one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

— Scott T. Miller, 40, of Centralia, on two counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

— Damion D. Thrailkill, 39, of Mount Vernon, on one count of distribution of methamphetamine.

U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft said the indictments demonstrate the commitment to combating methamphetamine distribution in southern Illinois.

The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges or arrests may follow.