Two gym owners from Bentonville, Arkansas have been arrested and charged with multiple felony counts after investigators say they were operating a large-scale drug trafficking operation involving psychedelic substances, firearms, and organized “ceremony” events. The arrests followed a lengthy investigation and a search of their residence and business.
Gym Owners Charged With Multiple Felonies
Bobby Bittle, 47, and Carolyn Jameson, 39, were arrested in Benton County on December 19. Their charges include:
- Criminal conspiracy
- Trafficking a controlled substance
- Maintaining a drug premises
- Simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms
Police say the alleged trafficking occurred both at their Bentonville residence and at their business, Chop HQ, a gym they operate locally.
Affidavit: “Ceremonies” Involved Psychedelic Drug Use
According to an affidavit filed after the arrests, investigators received information from a confidential informant who described events called “ceremonies” taking place at Bittle’s residence. During these gatherings, participants allegedly consumed a range of illegal substances, including:
- Psilocybin mushrooms
- Ayahuasca tea
- Marijuana
- DMT
- Other psychedelic drugs
Another source told police that Bittle was reportedly manufacturing DMT using Mimosa tenuiflora bark, according to the affidavit.
Police Seize Drugs, Firearms, and Cash During Search
On December 19, police executed a search warrant on the property shared by Bittle and Jameson. Investigators reported seizing:
- Around six pounds of marijuana
- Over 13 pounds of Schedule III products
- Nearly one pound of psilocybin products
- 48 firearms
- Nearly $4,000 in cash
Police say the quantity of drugs and weapons found supports allegations of an organized trafficking operation.
Travel History Raises Additional Questions
The affidavit also states that a source informed investigators of Bittle’s alleged ties to Southeast Asia, claiming he traveled there frequently. Police say Bittle’s passport records corroborated the travel activity, though the affidavit did not detail whether these trips played a role in the investigation.
Bonds Set and Upcoming Court Date
Bittle was assigned a $250,000 bond, while Jameson received a $150,000 bond. Both were released on December 21 after posting bond. The pair are scheduled to appear in court on January 26, where they will face the full list of charges.
Summary
Two Bentonville gym owners have been charged in a sweeping drug trafficking and conspiracy case after investigators seized large quantities of illegal substances, dozens of firearms, and cash. Authorities allege the pair hosted psychedelic “ceremonies” and operated a drug distribution operation from their home and business. Stay updated with ongoing crime investigations and breaking news at HonkNews.com.