Four people face multiple drug-related charges following a six-month investigation into alleged methamphetamine distribution in Independence County.
The 16th Judicial District Drug Task Force announced the arrests in a press release dated Aug. 13, 2026. The investigation was conducted in partnership with the Batesville Police Department and the Independence County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the release, investigators focused on identifying and dismantling a suspected network involved in distributing methamphetamine throughout the region. Authorities said the investigation included surveillance, intelligence gathering and undercover operations, including controlled drug purchases from suspected dealers.
The investigation culminated in August when officers executed coordinated search warrants at multiple locations across Independence County. Authorities said the operation resulted in several arrests and the seizure of evidence allegedly connected to illegal drug activity.
The following arrests and charges were announced:
WILLIAM “BO” CROCK
Crock faces the following allegations:
Delivery of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, more than 10 grams but less than 200 grams, a Class Y felony
Possession of methamphetamine, more than 2 grams but less than 10 grams, with purpose to deliver, a Class B felony
Maintaining a drug premises, a Class C felony
Possession of drug paraphernalia with purpose to use methamphetamine, a Class D felony
Use of a communication device in the commission of a drug offense, a Class C felony
Endangering the welfare of a minor in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor
BODEE CROCK
Crock faces the following allegations:
Possession of cocaine, more than 2 grams but less than 10 grams, with purpose to deliver, a Class B felony
Possession of methamphetamine, less than 2 grams, with purpose to deliver, a Class C felony
Maintaining a drug premises, a Class C felony
Possession of drug paraphernalia with purpose to use cocaine, first offense, a Class A misdemeanor
Endangering the welfare of a minor, a Class C misdemeanor
REX EDWARD SHELTON
Shelton faces the following allegations:
Two counts of delivery of methamphetamine, more than 10 grams but less than 200 grams, Class Y felonies
Simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, a Class Y felony
Felon in possession of a firearm, a Class D felony
Maintaining a drug premises, a Class C felony
Tampering with physical evidence, a Class D felony
Possession of methamphetamine, less than 2 grams, a Class D felony
Possession of a Schedule IV or V controlled substance, less than 200 grams, a Class D felony
Possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance, more than 14 grams but less than 4 ounces, a Class D felony
Resisting arrest, a Class A misdemeanor
Possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class A misdemeanor
EDER DAVID OCHOA-GUZMAN
Ochoa-Guzman faces the following allegations:
Possession of methamphetamine, less than 2 grams, a Class D felony
Possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class D felony
Maintaining a drug premises, a Class C felony
The cases are being submitted to the 16th Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review and prosecution.
Authorities said the operation reflects the continuing effort by local law enforcement agencies to reduce drug trafficking and improve public safety throughout Independence County.
The charges are allegations. All suspects are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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