A narcotics investigation by the North Vernon Police Department ended in three arrests and two further search warrants in Columbus on 28 October 2026.[1] Local police took three men into custody and recovered suspected cocaine, marijuana and THC products, the Madison Courier reported.[2] The search warrants were executed on Franklin Street in Columbus by the Columbus Police Department SWAT team and JNET.[2]

Terry Winchester II and Jacob M. Kennedy were arrested on charges of dealing in cocaine, dealing in marijuana and possession of a controlled substance.[2] Steven James Chandler was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance and visiting a common nuisance.[2] Additional charges were being filed as a result of the search warrants.[1]

The Madison Courier reported that the three men were arrested locally and that the Columbus warrants followed.[2] Task Force Commander Graham Heffelfinger said a lot of officers had put time and effort into the operation, recognized North Vernon officers Watts and Gibbons and thanked the Columbus SWAT team and JNET.[1] The Madison Courier noted that all parties are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.[2]