Community Tips and Complaints Lead to Arrests by TPSO

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reported today (August 13, 2019) that on August 9, 2019,

TPSO Narcotics Agents arrested two Ponchatoula residents following numerous tips and complaints regarding alleged illicit drug activity in the area of Barnes and Dunson Roads in Ponchatoula.

Agents went to a residence on Barnes Road that belonged to Jerry Wayne Barnes, Jr. (47) and made contact with Barnes and Brandon Tolley (33). Barnes advised that he had a concealed handgun in his waistband which was safely removed without incident. Tolley was detained for having outstanding arrest warrants.

Agents observed in plain view numerous drug paraphernalia items, suspected methamphetamine on a toolbox being prepared to be ingested, and other items consistent with illegal narcotics. At this time, both Barnes and Tolley were placed under arrest. Searches incidental to arrest revealed Barnes to be in possession of approximately 2 grams of processed methamphetamine and Tolley to be in possession of an empty used syringe.

Barnes was charged with Possession with the intent to distribute CDS II, Possession of a firearm while in possession of CDS II, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Tolley was charged with Possession of drug paraphernalia, outstanding warrants, and possession of CDS II.