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GUTH AND SELBY HONORED FOR METH LAB ERADICATION

Two of Sparta's finest were honored by their peers at a ceremony in Cookeville on Thursday.

Sparta Police Chief Jeff Guth and Investigator Allen Selby were both commended for their role in the eradication of methamphetamine labs in the law enforcement effort known as Operation Stop Gap.  The combined efforts gained the honor of the Case Of The Year for the entire Southeast District including seven states for the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force ( OCDETF ).

Selby was given a special honor, a plaque and cup, in recognition of his contribution to the effort in Middle Tennessee, presented by the Drug Enforcement Administration ( DEA ) Atlanta office.

Chief Guth talked about Selby's dedication to the protection of the citizens of Sparta and the eradication of the highly dangerous and damaging methamphetamine production.

"We have garnered the respect of the federal government," Guth said, "and Alan has been a key player in that effort.  He has a natural ability for investigation and the respect of law enforcement in Middle Tennessee.  We are very proud of him."

Guth also said he is proud of the work all of his officers have done.  He is also proud of their families, particularly Selby's.  The family members stand behind the officers and put up with long hours and last-minute changes of plans and intrusions on family life.

Harry Sommers, the resident agent in charge, ( RAIN ) for the DEA said, "I couldn't speak more confidently about Allen Selby.  He is DEA trained, and the entire Upper Cumberland is fortunate to have him here."

Operation Stop Gap was part of a multi-state effort to slow down the flow of methamphetamines, conducted by multiple agencies.  In August 2000, the operation was initiated with the U.S.  Attorney's Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S.  Marshals Service and state and local law enforcement agencies including the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Sheriff's offices of Putnam, DeKalb, Fentress, Overton, Smith, Cumberland and White Counties and the Sparta Police Department.

Assistant U.S.  Attorney Larry Moon said, while speaking to the group of law enforcement officials, "You 'all are the most splendid people I have ever worked with.  You came in with no egos and no agendas, but with a resolve to solve this common problem with meth.  You did produce results to be proud of."

The Sparta Police Dept.  was instrumental due to a business located within the city limits that was allegedly a major supplier of the chemicals which are used to create the drug.

This cooperative effort from law enforcement agencies in Middle Tennessee resulted in a 50 percent reduction of the clandestine labs.

"We did produce measurable results," Guth said.

The cooperation of local agencies with highly touted federal agencies like the FBI and DEA is unique, but very effective.  "This operation stood out because of the cooperation between the agencies," Guth went on to explain.  "The more the merrier.  We are a small department.  Any help from other agencies is welcome."