Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Meth Lab

January 27, 2003; 2:45pm

On Saturday, January 25, 2003, Deputy Tony Hernandez discovered a methamphetamine lab in a residence on Donald Road, Quilcene (Toandos Peninsula).

At approximately 12:00pm, Deputy Hernandez arrived at the residence in response to a report from the property owner that somebody had been using the summer residence without permission. During the course of his investigation, Deputy Hernandez found several items and chemicals he recognized as materials used in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Deputy Hernandez reported the odor of chemicals was strong around the residence and he experienced a brief exposure to chemical fumes emitting from a garbage bag. Deputy Hernandez was subsequently checked at Jefferson General Hospital and released. The only ill affects he reported was a headache and a feeling of light headedness.

A search warrant was obtained and executed on the residence. The Washington State Patrol Statewide Incident Response Team, who is specially equipped and trained to handle meth labs, assisted Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputies.

Evidence seized indicates the residence was being used for the manufacture of methamphetamine (i.e., Toluene, Acetone, rock salt, funnels and tubing, a respirator, filters, Red Devil lye containers, ammonia sulfate, empty lithium battery packs, pseudoephedrine).

At this time, no suspects have been arrested, however, investigators are hopeful fingerprint evidence will help in identifying the person(s) involved.

The case remains under investigation