MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A large-scale undercover operation in McNairy County, Tennessee, has led to the indictments of 21 individuals on drug-related charges, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI).
Dubbed “Operation Ice Storm,” the investigation began in September 2023 with the assistance of the TBI’s Drug Investigation Division, the McNairy County Sheriff’s Office, and the McNairy County Narcotics Unit. The operation focused on dismantling networks allegedly distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl across the region.
On June 9, the McNairy County Grand Jury returned indictments for 21 people. Nineteen have been taken into custody, while one person was arrested under a separate state warrant.
Searches were conducted in McNairy County and neighboring areas with the support of multiple agencies, including the DEA, Homeland Security Investigations, and various local law enforcement departments.
Notable Charges:
Scott A. Staudacher (52) – Selmer, TN: Two counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine. Bond: $100,000
Kelvin O. Robinson (53) – Selmer, TN: Two counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine. Bond: $75,000
Michael Throne (47) – Guys, TN: Delivery of Subutex, Felon with Firearm. Bond: $50,000
Ronnie McCombs (75) – Finger, TN: Six counts of Child Rape, six counts of Incest. Bond: $100,000
Thomas Elam (56) – Ramer, TN: Two counts of Sexual Battery by an Authority Figure. Bond: $100,000
Larry Chanley (55) – Bethel Springs, TN: Rape, Sexual Battery, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor. Bond: $75,000
Other individuals face a range of drug charges involving methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, Subutex, and buprenorphine, along with charges related to weapons, theft, and probation violations.
TBI officials confirm that this investigation is ongoing, and additional arrests may follow.
