ATHENS COUNTY, Ohio — On January 31st, 2023, the Southeast Major Crimes Task Force made multiple arrests at 25 May Avenue in Chauncey in response to multiple theft and drug-related complaints received by the Athens County Sheriff’s Office and local residents. The Task Force was assisted by Deputies from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio Adult Parole Authority and the Athens County Prosecutor’s Office.
During the investigation, detectives discovered a group of individuals residing in a tent in the backyard of the property who were suspected of recent drug activity and theft. The law enforcement officials seized methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and evidence of drug trafficking.
Sheriff Rodney Smith stated that multiple individuals on the scene were wanted by the Adult Parole Authority for failure to report or had active warrants for their arrest.
The following individuals were arrested and transported to jail:
- Mona Kay Dearing, 27, of Nelsonville, was arrested on an outstanding felony warrant and transferred to the Hocking County Sheriff’s Office.
- John D. Dearing, 45, of Athens, was arrested on an APA holder for Possession of Drugs.
- Amber Dawn Drake, 35, of Glouster, was arrested on a felony warrant for Drug Possession and three felony Child Support warrants.
The Athens County Prosecutor’s Office will review the case and decide on additional charges to be submitted to the grand jury.