Four Arrested as Task Force Cracks Down on Meth Distribution in Independence County

Four individuals are facing drug and weapons-related charges following a six-month investigation that authorities say disrupted a methamphetamine distribution operation in Independence County. According to a news release from the 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force, the investigation included surveillance, intelligence gathering, and undercover drug purchases.

This month, the operation culminated with officers executing a series of search warrants at multiple locations across the county, leading to the arrests and seizure of evidence tied to the alleged network. The task force collaborated with the Batesville Police Department and the Independence County Sheriff’s Office during the investigation.

Those arrested include:

- **William “Bo” Dale Crock**, 64, of Southside: Held on a $100,000 bond, Crock faces charges including delivery of methamphetamine (a Class Y felony), possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver (a Class B felony), maintaining a drug premises (a Class C felony), possession of drug paraphernalia (a Class D felony), use of a communication device in the commission of a drug offense (a Class C felony), and second-degree endangerment of a minor (a Class A misdemeanor).

- **Bodee Kyle Crock**, 27, of Southside: Held on a $30,000 bond, his charges include possession of cocaine with intent to deliver (a Class B felony), possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver (a Class C felony), maintaining a drug premises (a Class C felony), possession of drug paraphernalia related to cocaine (a Class A misdemeanor), and endangerment of a minor (a Class C misdemeanor).

- **Rex Edward Shelton**, 58, of Newark: Shelton is being held on a $100,000 bond and faces multiple charges, including two felony counts of delivery of methamphetamine (Class Y felonies), simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms (a Class Y felony), possession of methamphetamine (a Class D felony), being a felon in possession of a firearm (a Class D felony), maintaining a drug premises (a Class C felony), tampering with physical evidence (a Class D felony), and possession of a Schedule IV or V controlled substance (a Class D felony), among others.

- **Eder David Ochoa-Guzman**, 20, of Batesville: Held on a $50,000 bond, Ochoa-Guzman has been charged with possession of methamphetamine (a Class D felony), possession of drug paraphernalia (a Class D felony), and maintaining a drug premises (a Class C felony).

The 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force indicated the cases have been submitted to the local prosecuting attorney’s office for review and potential prosecution. Officials emphasized that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Authorities stated that the investigation and subsequent operation underscore their ongoing commitment to combating drug-related activity and enhancing public safety in Independence County.