Multi-Agency Operation Leads to Drug Arrests

Written with artificial intelligence assistance.

According to the Tupelo Police Department, a significant law enforcement operation took place on July 25, 2024, involving the Tupelo Police Department, the North Mississippi Narcotics Unit, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the Alcoholic Beverage Control, and Tupelo SWAT. The coordinated effort resulted in the execution of a search warrant at 920 Dixie Creek Road, Saltillo, MS.

Kelly N BallardPhoto byTupelo Police Department

During the search, authorities seized a felony amount of methamphetamine, MDMA, and LSD from the residence. The operation led to the arrest of three individuals found at the scene: Kelly Ballard, James Galjour, and Michael Hill.

Kelly Ballard, 43, of Tupelo, has been charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Sell, Possession of MDMA, and Possession of LSD.

James T GaljourPhoto byTupelo Police Department

James Galjour, 40, also from Tupelo, faces charges of Possession of Methamphetamine.

Micheal Aaron HillPhoto byTupelo Police Department

Michael Hill, 33, of Tupelo, was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of MDMA, Possession of LSD, and Simple Assault on a Police Officer, after an incident in which he assaulted an officer during his arrest. Hill also had active warrants from the Lee County Sheriff’s Department and the Mississippi Department of Corrections at the time of his arrest.

On July 26, 2024, Tupelo Municipal Court Judge Willie Allen set Ballard’s bond at $50,000 and Galjour’s bond at $5,000. Hill, who was previously out on bond for another drug charge, had his bond denied.

The Tupelo Police Department continues to address narcotics-related issues in the area as the investigation remains ongoing.