Two people arrested following a drug trafficking investigation

SOMERSET, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Two people are in custody following a long-term drug trafficking investigation that uncovered large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl, according to Pulaski County Sheriff Bobby Jones.

Sheriff’s officials said the investigation began in late 2025 after the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division received information about a drug trafficking operation supplying large quantities of methamphetamine to Pulaski County from a source in Lexington.

Detectives conducted multiple controlled purchases during the investigation, which led to an operation late Friday night into early Saturday to arrest the suspected source of supply.

Authorities said deputies and detectives staged in the Shopville community after learning the suspect, identified as Robert Conley, 45, of Lexington, was traveling to Pulaski County to deliver methamphetamine.

Deputies followed the suspect vehicle to the parking lot of East Way Market on East Highway 80, where detectives confirmed Conley was the passenger. Deputies said they observed Conley handling a box on the passenger-side floorboard.

As the occupants exited the vehicle, deputies detained them. A K-9 unit conducted a free-air sniff, and the dog alerted to the presence of narcotics, authorities said.

A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of approximately 155 grams of methamphetamine, 31.6 grams of fentanyl, and a loaded .40-caliber pistol on the passenger side, according to the sheriff’s office.

Conley was arrested and charged with a parole violation, distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, and conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. The distribution and conspiracy charges stem from a federal indictment.

Following Conley’s arrest, deputies located and arrested Tiffany Helton, 43, of Somerset, at a residence on Deck Drive. Helton was charged with distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, both under a federal indictment.

Sheriff Jones said the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are expected.