JOHNSON CITY – A joint investigation by Special Agents with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, 2nd Judicial District Drug Task Force and the Kingsport Police Department has resulted in the arrest of three people on drug charges.

At the request of 2nd District Attorney General Barry Staubus, TBI Special Agents with the Drug Investigation Division, working alongside DTF Agents and Kingsport Vice and Narcotics Detectives, began investigating allegations of illegal drug activity at the Sullivan County Transfer Station located on Brookside Lane in Kingsport. During the course of the investigation, authorities developed information that several individuals were using and selling prescription pills, marijuana and methamphetamine while at that location performing community service. The individuals were performing community service in lieu of incarceration, following their convictions out of Sullivan County General Sessions Court. Further investigation revealed that several Sullivan County employees, who were responsible for supervising the workers, were also involved in illegal drug activity. Probation officers with Community Supervision Inc., were on hand during the operation to administer drug tests. Of the twelve offenders performing community service at the transfer station, seven tested positive for illegal drug use.

On Wednesday, John Parrish (DOB 3/7/70), David Bell (DOB 9/11/68) and Amanda Rothman (DOB 8/23/90) were arrested as part of an undercover operation. John Parrish (LEFT BELOW), a Sullivan County employee, is charged with two counts of Possession of Schedule II Drugs for Resale. He was booked into the Kingsport Jail on a $7,500 bond. David Bell (MIDDLE) , also a Sullivan County employee, is charged with Simple Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Simple Possession of Schedule VI Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was booked into the Kingsport Jail on a $3,000 bond. Amanda Rothman (RIGHT), a community service worker, is charged with Simple Possession of Schedule II, III and IV Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. She was booked into the Kingsport Jail on a $3,000 bond. At this time, the investigation is active and ongoing with the possibility of additional charges and arrests.

Published by Leslie Earhart