Multi-agency drug bust in Rochester leads to four arrests; teen accused of dark web trafficking

Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 8:25 AM

By Kathy Bottorff

A coordinated narcotics investigation involving multiple local and state law enforcement agencies has resulted in the arrest of four individuals in Rochester, including a teenager accused of purchasing large quantities of drugs on the dark web.

According to the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, the joint investigation identified Tristin Shell, 18, of Rochester as the primary suspect. Authorities allege that Shell was utilizing the dark web to purchase significant amounts of illegal narcotics, which were then being distributed throughout Fulton County.

The investigation recently culminated in the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Rochester. During the raid, investigators seized approximately 28 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Officers also recovered various other illegal items, including prescription pills, suspected psilocybin mushrooms, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

Tristin Shell was taken into custody and faces a slew of serious charges, including:

Dealing Methamphetamine (Level 2 Felony)
Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 3 Felony)
Dealing a Controlled Substance (Level 4 Felony)
Maintaining a Common Nuisance (Level 6 Felony)
Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class A Misdemeanor)
Possession of Marijuana (Class B Misdemeanor)
Possession of Paraphernalia (Class C Misdemeanor)

Three other individuals were also arrested in connection with the investigation. April Lockridge was charged with Maintaining a Common Nuisance and Possession of a Controlled Substance. Lyndon Swanson and Heather Shell were both arrested on preliminary charges of Maintaining a Common Nuisance.

The successful operation was a collaborative effort between the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, the Indiana State Police, the Marshall County Drug Task Force, and the Rochester Police Department.

"This case highlights the ongoing efforts of our agency and our law enforcement partners to combat the distribution of dangerous drugs in our community," said Fulton County Sheriff Travis W. Heishman. "We remain committed to identifying and holding accountable those who bring illegal narcotics into Fulton County."

Authorities noted that the investigation remains ongoing.