Two people arrested in southwest Nebraska drug bust

LAMAR, Neb. - Two individuals were arrested Thursday in rural Chase County as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation led by the Nebraska State Patrol.

Investigators, accompanied by the NSP SWAT Team, served a search warrant at a residence near Lamar. Authorities said both occupants, who had active warrants for their arrests, exited the home voluntarily after verbal contact from authorities and were taken into custody without incident.

A search of the property uncovered 16 grams of methamphetamine, eight ounces of marijuana, 12 firearms and two stolen motorcycles, according to a press release from the Chase County Sheriff’s Office.

Kenneth Johnston, 45, was arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance. Additional charges include possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of stolen property, possession of a stolen vehicle and conspiracy to commit theft. He is currently being held at the Lincoln County Jail.

Lindsey Bartorelli, 39, was arrested on an outstanding warrant for theft and is being held at the Chase County Jail.

The operation was a collaborative effort involving NSP investigators and troopers from various divisions, the CODE Task Force, the Imperial Police Department and the Chase County Sheriff’s Office.

No injuries were reported during the operation. Authorities continue to investigate the case.