NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — An investigation between the several Middle Tennessee law enforcement agencies has led to the arrest of a heroin and fentanyl dealer on Tuesday evening.
Narcotics Detectives with the Wilson County Sheriff's Office, Lebanon Police Department and the Metro Nashville Police Department identified a suspect as a potential heroin and fentanyl dealer during a lengthy investigation.
Agents received information that the suspect, 30-year-old Isaiah Richard Gates would be delivering a large amount of heroin and fentanyl to an unknown person at a local business. They were also told that Gates would be using an Uber car as his mode of transportation to his destination.
The Uber, a black Chrystler, arrived at the business on Lebanon Road in Old Hickory around 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Gates was then seen getting out of the backseat of the vehicle.
At that time, detectives attempted to make casual contact with Gates but it soon became clear to the suspect that the men were police and he attempted to flee on foot. But after a short foot pursuit, Gates was apprehended.
Here is a picture of Gates being taken into custody last night. You can see the large amount of powder heroin scattered on the ground that put everyone at risk. Fortunately, none of the officers were affected. pic.twitter.com/DQ9i5Riqqo
— Lt. Scott Moore (@LtScottMoore1) February 27, 2019
Gates also managed to rip open a large bag of powder heroin in attempt to destroy the evidence. Both Gates and several agents were heavily exposed to the heroin but more approximately 100 grams of heroin and 8 grams of fentanyl were still recovered from the scene.
The Uber driver, Tariku Gezahegn Bulit, who had transported Gates to the location was also taken into custody at the scene.
“We are continuing to see the rise of heroin and fentanyl use on the streets that are feeding into the addictions of many of our citizens,” stated Sheriff Robert Bryan. “The detectives that were involved with this investigation are to be commended for their work in taking Gates and Bulit off the street. These are very dangerous drugs that are taking the lives of many people and we are going to continue to hold the ones responsible accountable for their actions.”
Both Gates and Bulit have been transported to the Wilson County Jail.
Currently Gates is being held on a $100,000 bond and charged with Possession of Schedule I (Heroin) with Intent for Resale, Possession of Schedule II (Fentanyl) with Intent for Resale, Reckless Endangerment x 5, and Tampering with Evidence.
Bulit has been booked on a $25,000 bond and is charged with Criminal Responsibility by Facilitating Felony.
