Former Fayette Co. deputy accused of being informant for drug dealer

Franklin County Prosecutor assigned as special prosecutor

(CONNERSVILLE, Ind.) – A former Fayette County deputy has been arrested and accused of using his position to help an alleged drug dealer over the course of several years.

46-year-old Andrew “Chad” Blaes rose to the role of chief deputy at the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office before resigning in January. 

Between 2020 and 2024, Blaes allegedly served as an informant for 27-year-old Tristen Sweney, who was suspected of operating a large marijuana operation in Fayette County. 

Authorities say Blaes would tip off Sweney about police activity, deputies work schedules and law enforcement investigations. 

One text exchange from January 2022 allegedly shows Blaes warning Sweney about Indiana State Police activity in Fayette County. 

“Bro! You and your guys don’t move anything tonite their is a bunch of state police stopping people looking for dope so keep ur self and ur guys safe,” Blaes allegedly texted Sweney.

Court documents cite another instance when a Fayette County deputy had pulled over Sweney while Blaes was off-duty. Blaes allegedly found out and called that deputy during the traffic stop and told him to “not ruin” his investigation.

At another point, a confidential informant for the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department allowed the department to place a GPS monitor on his car. The confidential informant was supposed to drive an alleged heroin dealer to buy drugs in Dayton. Court documents state Blaes told Sweney about the GPS monitor and the confidential informant, who in turn told the alleged dealer. 

Authorities interviewed informants during the investigation who referred to Blaes as a "dirty cop."

Investigators believe Blaes would provide information and “protection” for Sweney in exchange for monthly payments that ranged from $1,000 to $10,000.

Following a lengthy investigation, Blaes was arrested this week and charged with Corrupt Business Influence, Bribery, Obstruction of Justice, Release of Criminal Intelligence Information, and Official Misconduct.

Sweney was also charged with Obstruction of Justice and Corrupt Business Influence.

The investigation was led by the Indiana State Police Organized Crime and Corruption Unit who was assisted by the FBI and Fayette County Sheriff’s Department. 

Franklin County Prosecutor Chris Huerkamp has been assigned as special prosecutor for the case.

Blaes was placed on leave at the beginning of the investigation and resigned this past January.

Fayette County Sheriff Zac Jones released a statement following the arrest on Friday: