Pikeville, Kentucky Drug Sweep: Police Arrest 7 Suspects in Countywide Operation “Initiis Novis”
PIKEVILLE, KENTUCKY — A major drug roundup in Pike County led to multiple arrests Friday as Pikeville Police launched a coordinated sweep targeting individuals accused of trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl. The operation, named “Initiis Novis” — Latin for “new beginnings” — marks one of the department’s most aggressive anti-drug efforts this year.
Police Launch Countywide Roundup Focused on Meth and Fentanyl
According to Pikeville Police, the roundup involved teams fanning out across Pike County to serve sealed indictments linked to drug trafficking investigations. Officers executed 11 sealed indictment warrants and four additional unrelated warrants on suspects encountered during the sweep.
In addition to the arrests, officers seized five guns, drug paraphernalia, a stolen motorcycle, a stolen camper, and a stolen U-Haul trailer.
Pikeville Police described the initiative as a coordinated push to reduce the drug supply entering Appalachian communities.
A department spokesperson stated:
“Initiis Novis is a focused effort targeting individuals distributing meth and fentanyl throughout Pike County.”
Seven Suspects Arrested on Drug Trafficking Charges
While the sealed indictments remain unavailable over the weekend, jail records confirm that seven individuals were arrested by Pikeville Police on Friday for drug trafficking offenses.
The suspects include:
- Anthony Barron, 61, of Jenkins — one count of meth trafficking
- Darren Bartley, 42, of Ratliffs Creek — two counts of meth trafficking, one persistent felony offender
- Bridget Bolden, 50, of Powells Creek — one count of meth trafficking
- Henry Cleaver, 48, of Elkhorn City — three counts of fentanyl trafficking, two counts of meth trafficking, four persistent felony offender charges
- James Elkins, 65, of Lick Creek — three counts of cocaine trafficking
- Joey Spears, 46, of Ratliffs Creek — one count of meth trafficking
- Brian Young, 47, of Ratliffs Creek — one count of meth trafficking
Police say the suspects were booked into local detention facilities after Friday’s operation.
Investigation Still Active; More Arrests Expected
Pikeville Police confirmed that the roundup is part of an ongoing investigation and that additional charges and arrests are likely.
Officials noted that the indictments remain sealed for now, and more details will be released when courts reopen.
Authorities emphasized that the department remains committed to reducing drug distribution across eastern Kentucky.
As Pike County continues its fight against drug trafficking, residents are encouraged to stay informed and report suspicious activity to local authorities. For ongoing updates on community safety, law-enforcement operations, and regional crime news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.