A couple in Penobscot County, Maine, is facing serious charges after allegedly turning their vehicle into a micro, portable meth lab. This discovery prompted a major response to mitigate the lab hazards in the car.
According to a press release issued by the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on Tuesday, June 30. At the time, deputies patrolling the streets of Mattawamkeag encountered a vehicle that seemed suspicious.
A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver complied and stopped. However, when deputies approached the vehicle, they found what they say was a “one-pot” methamphetamine laboratory.
These labs, often called “Shake and Bake” labs, are portable and capable of creating small amounts of methamphetamine. Those who produce them can do so in a shorter time than usual, but the labs are very dangerous, as explosions are always a risk.
Meth Lab and Drugs
Given the volatile nature of the lab, deputies knew that they needed to tread lightly. Two individuals, the driver and a passenger, were arrested at the scene.
Meanwhile, the PCSO observed the suspected “one-pot” meth lab as they inspected the inside of the vehicle. The sheriff’s office also said that crack cocaine and methamphetamine were found in the car.
Knowing full well that the situation they were in exceeded their capacity, the deputies called for backup. The scene was immediately secured as they waited for specialized teams to arrive.
Clearing the Scene
Shortly after, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency responded to the scene. So did the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
Personnel approached the meth lab to safely assess it. Eventually, they managed to mitigate the hazards, and the scene was cleared.
Due to the potentially explosive situation, the Mattawamkeag Fire Department and Lee Rescue assisted at the scene. Thankfully, it appears that none of the responders were injured while clearing the car-turned-meth-lab, as chemical inhalation is always a risk.
Arrested and Charged
The PCSO arrested 54-year-old Stephen Twist. He is charged with unlawful possession of scheduled drugs. He could spend up to five years in prison.
Meanwhile, 32-year-old Racheal White, no win custody, is facing additional charges, as she had multiple active warrants at the time of her arrest. She is charged wtih unlawful possession of scheduled drugs and violation of conditions of release.
Additionally, White is also facing an unsworn falsification charge. Apparently, she provided deputies with a false name during the traffic stop, the sheriff’s office said.