According to the release, special agents in TBI’s Drug Investigation Division and agents with the 5th Judicial District Drug Task Force in December began investigating the sale of large quantities of methamphetamine in Knox County and surrounding areas. Along the way, agents allegedly developed information that Richard Baker, of Knoxville, a member of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club, was leading the distribution efforts.
The release said another club member, Brian Fox, of Dandridge, and numerous other individuals assisted Baker in distributing illegal narcotics throughout East Tennessee. Baker was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine and three counts of sale/delivery of 26 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Fox was charged with intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine. Also indicted on charges of intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture 300 grams or more of methamphetamine were several others.
The TBI release said Knox County Sheriff’s Office, 9th Judicial District Drug Task Force, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are assisting with the investigation, which remains ongoing.
The charges and allegations referenced are merely accusations of criminal conduct and not evidence. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.