Seven people arrested following drug bust in Ohio

OHIO — Seven people have been arrested as part of a major drug sting operation spanning multiple counties, with one suspect still on the run, according to the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office.

The operation was carried out in coordination with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Joint Drug Task Force, resulting in four search warrants being executed in Columbus, McConnelsville, Crooksville, and Malta.

Authorities seized a large quantity of drugs, firearms, and cash during the searches.

Items recovered include four rifles, three handguns, drug paraphernalia, an undisclosed amount of cash estimated in the thousands, and various drugs — including methamphetamine, fentanyl, eutylone, and cocaine.

Among those arrested was Elijah McCants of Columbus, who faces charges of aggravated trafficking in drugs and engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity. He is being held on a $100,000 bond, with his case pending presentation to a grand jury.

Others facing similar charges and bond conditions include Lindsay Pierce-Parsons, Lindsey Parsons, and Chelsea Duncan, all of McConnelsville, and Sierra Schultz of Malta.

Andrea Dzierwa of Crooksville was also arrested and charged with one count of drug possession.

Still at large is Mark Bumgardner of Crooksville, wanted on multiple felony counts, including aggravated drug trafficking, drug possession, having weapons under disability, and receiving stolen property.

Authorities say a substantial amount of drugs and firearms were discovered during the search connected to Bumgardner.

Anyone with information on Bumgardner’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office at 740-962-1369.