A routine traffic stop in Knox County Saturday morning uncovered a major drug case, leading to three arrests and multiple charges. Deputies pulled over a 2008 Dodge Ram for speeding at SR 67 and Church Road, where K-9 Zeno alerted to drugs inside the truck. A search turned up 680 grams of marijuana, scales, paraphernalia, and a prescription bottle not belonging to the driver. A pipe also tested positive for methamphetamine. The driver, Joshua Barmes, 39, was arrested on charges of dealing in marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, legend drug deception, and possession of paraphernalia. He is being held on a $10,000 bond. The stop led investigators to obtain search warrants for two Bicknell homes on Washington Street. Officers found another 800 grams of marijuana, paraphernalia, scales, and smoking devices. Nicole Marie Sloan, 39, and Tonya J. Riker, 43, were arrested and charged with dealing in marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, and maintaining a common nuisance. Sloan also faces charges of possessing methamphetamine and a syringe. Both women were later released on $5,000 bonds. The investigation remains ongoing.
