Active meth labs found, three arrested

Local News

December 8, 2009

Melodie Phelps, News Editor

Monticello — The Monticello Police Department discovered an active meth lab at a

residence and in a car, following an investigation into a three-vehicle

traffic collision that occurred on Columbia Avenue on Thursday, December 3.

According to Police Chief Ralph Miniard, three people were arrested in

the course of the investigation, which began after the crash.

At the scene of the accident, Justin L. Fairchild, 25, of Monticello,

was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine.

Officers then found an active meth lab on South Main Street, where they

arrested Ashley D. Fairchild, 25, for manufacturing methamphetamine.

John Wilson, 39, of Monticello was also arrested at the scene of the

meth lab for tampering with physical evidence.

Police obtained a search warrant and searched Fairchild's vehicle on

Saturday, December 5, where an additional active meth lab was discovered.

The vehicle had been impounded following the collision and had been

secured in the garage at the police impound lot, according to Miniard.

The investigation also revealed that the suspects were using a number of

surveillance cameras, two-way radios and police scanners in their

activities.

Miniard said that in addition to the arrests that have already been

made, information will be presented to the Wayne County Grand Jury.

Additional arrests are anticipated.

The police department was assisted by deputies with the Wayne County

Sheriff's Department, agents of the UNITE Drug Task Force and the Monticello

Fire Department.