Five sentenced in methamphetamine dealing cases, prosecutor's office announces

The following is a press release from the Washington County Prosecutor's Office:

Washington County Prosecutor Tara Coats Hunt announced the  successful prosecution and sentencing of five individuals involved in significant drug dealing offenses in Washington County. 

The convictions resulted in substantial prison sentences: 

• Gerald Williams – 20 years (3 years suspended) for Level 2 Dealing in  Methamphetamine. 

• Kinsley Bentel – 20 years (3 years suspended) for Level 2 Felony Dealing in  Methamphetamine. 

• Jaclyn Briscoe – 20 years (3 years suspended) for Level 2 Felony Dealing in  Methamphetamine. 

• Linda Needler – 20 years (none suspended) for Level 2 Felony Dealing in  Methamphetamine. 

• Latina Dolan – 19 years (2.5 years suspended) for Level 2 Felony Dealing in  Methamphetamine. 

These cases arose from investigations conducted by the Indiana State Police Drug  Enforcement Section, the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, and other law  enforcement partners. Detectives utilized confidential informants, controlled purchases,  search warrants, surveillance, and other investigative techniques to identify and dismantle  drug trafficking activity operating within Washington County. 

“Drug dealers who choose to bring methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs into our  community should expect significant consequences,” Prosecutor Tara Coats Hunt said.  “When firearms are combined with drug activity, the risk to our citizens and law  enforcement increases dramatically.”  

One investigation uncovered methamphetamine, controlled substances, marijuana, digital scales, large amounts of cash, and a loaded handgun located within the residence. The  combination of illegal narcotics and firearms creates a significant danger to law  enforcement officers and the public and will continue to be aggressively prosecuted. 

Collectively, these convictions resulted in more than 90 years of prison sentences and  send a clear message: Those who choose to traffic methamphetamine, distribute  dangerous controlled substances, or possess firearms while engaged in drug activity will  be aggressively prosecuted and held accountable.  

“These sentences reflect our commitment to holding drug dealers accountable and  protecting the safety of Washington County families. We will continue working closely with law enforcement to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who choose to deal drugs in  our community,” said Prosecutor Hunt. 

The Washington County Prosecutor’s Office thanks the Indiana State Police Drug  Enforcement Section, the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and all assisting law  enforcement agencies for their dedication and professionalism in these investigations.  The safety of our community is strengthened by the partnership the Prosecutor’s Office  has with the Indiana State Police, Washington County Sheriff’s Department and Salem  Police Department.