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Massive meth bust in Nashville sparks fugitive manhunt

Massive meth bust in Nashville sparks fugitive manhunt

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) – The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is asking for the public’s help in locating two fugitives who are wanted in connection with Nashville’s largest meth bust.

The TBI is seeking Timothy Batts and Stephen Hicks on charges from Davidson County for allegedly distributing 300 grams or more of methamphetamine.

If you have information, you’re asked to call 1-800-TBI-FIND or email [email protected].

In early December, the Metro Nashville Police Department and the TBI announced the indictment of 13 suspects in connection with the bust of a California meth trafficking ring in Nashville.

The organization was allegedly responsible for transporting approximately 5,000 pounds of methamphetamine into the city in recent years. The investigation began in November 2022 through November 2024 – law enforcement intercepted and seized shipments containing more than 800 pounds of methamphetamine and 24 pounds of fentanyl.

Below is the full list of those charged in this case who are not in custody:

  • Juannae Piero, 24, of Riverside County, California, who is charged with engaging in a methamphetamine conspiracy. Piero is not in custody and is wanted by indictment;
  • Timothy L. Batts, 37, of Nashville, who is charged with engaging in a methamphetamine conspiracy. Batts is not in custody and is wanted on the indictment;
  • Stephen Hicks, 37, of Antioch, who is charged with possession of methamphetamine for resale. Hicks is not in custody and is wanted on the indictment;
  • Jonathan Kramer, 66, of North Hollywood, California, an employee of the California Shipping Service, who is charged with engaging in a methamphetamine conspiracy and possession of methamphetamine for resale. Kramer is not in custody and is wanted on an indictment;
  • Tino Wallace, 51, of Los Angeles, California, an employee of a California shipping service, who is charged with engaging in a methamphetamine conspiracy and possession of methamphetamine for resale. Wallace is not in custody and is wanted on an indictment.

The investigation remains active with charges anticipated against several suspects.

“In addition to the MNPD and TBI, the following law enforcement agencies have had an active role in parts of this two-year case: Drug Enforcement Administration Tactical Diversion Group, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms, Smyrna Police, 18th Judicial District Drug Task Force (Sumner County), Williamson County Sheriff’s Office, Murfreesboro Police, Regional Organized Crime Information Center (ROCIC), MNPD SWAT, Tennessee Highway Patrol SWAT and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office.”