Sheriff Rick Thompson stated that (13) suspects have been arrested for indictments of felony drug offenses after an operation that was led by the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West.
The Task Force is made up members from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, WV State Police, and DEA. The Wayne County Sheriff Drug Enforcement Unit also assisted in some cases.
The US Marshals Cuffed Task Force, State Police, and Wayne County Sheriff’s Department assisted in the arrests.
A search warrant was executed at the residence of William Allen. Officers seized Heroin, Methamphetamine, and firearms. Allen was arrested at his residence.
Mary Pertee, of Fort Gay, and Joseph Melbar, of Wayne, turned themselves in on the felony indictments.
The following, are all from the Wayne and East Lynn area, were arrested on felony drug indictments.
Lori Mayhon
Thomas Bryant
Mark ‘Brandon’ Maynard
David Adkins
Derek Perry
William Kelly
Donna Followay
Keith Pauley & Christopher 
Mills (both 
were already incarcerated at 
the WRJ)
Ronnie Frye II was arrested in Ohio
In addition James Lester was arrested for a 1st Degree Sexual Assault Circuit Court capias
The following have not been located at this time and have warrants for their arrest.
Jason Thompson of Ashland
Amanda Bessing of Wayne
Shane McCoy of Wayne
Cody Johnson of Fort Gay
Cory Maynard of Fort Gay
Sheriff Thompson stated that this was a lengthy investigation and that he appreciates the hard work of all agencies involved.
