CORNING, NY - Two Covington residents were arrested in New York last week after a six-month joint investigation into the importation and distribution of crystal methamphetamine into Steuben County, New York. 

The investigation involved the Steuben County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigation Unit, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the City of Corning Police Department. 

According to a SCSO news release, the investiation led to the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of approximately three pounds of crystal methamphetamine, valued at approximately $130,000. 

Arrested were two Covington residents, Dennis J. Jewell, 55, and Sheila M. Bates-Booth, 54. 

"It is alleged that Mr. Jewell and Ms. Bates-Booth possessed over two pounds of methamphetamine, allegedly brought to New York State for distribution in Steuben County," according to the release. "Mr. Jewell and Ms. Bates-Booth were remanded on a federal warrant to the Steuben County Jail with no bail."

Also arrested was a Pennsylvania woman identified as Deborah K. Padgett, 50, of Elkland, Pennsylvania. She was also arrested on a federal warrant for alleged possession and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and is in federal custody.

"This investigation successfully shut down an alleged distribution ring of crystal methamphetamine from Georgia to Steuben County in which an estimated 32 pounds of methamphetamine had been distributed within the Steuben County area," according to the release. "The investigation is ongoing and future arrests are pending."