Published: June 09, 2009 12:36 pm      

Serving warrant, officers bust meth lab

Weeks after he was indicted for manufacturing methamphetamine, a Keavy man picked up additional charges after deputies reported finding meth oil and meth-related items at his home.

According to Sheriff Fred Yaden, deputies Jason Back, Joey Vicini and Sgt. Greg Poynter went to Byron Baker’s home on Lipscomb Road Thursday to serve an arrest warrant to Baker for theft by unlawful taking.

“The deputies then noticed a strong chemical smell in the residence,” Yaden said. “They also found some byproduct of a methamphetamine cook.”

Yaden said based on statements made by Baker, they were led to believe that there was or recently had been a methamphetamine lab in the home.

Based on those statements and what they had observed, Yaden said the deputies secured a search warrant for the home and returned later that day.

Inside, deputies reported finding a glass jar that contained a coffee filter and a clear liquid, which Yaden said contained “meth oil,” which is one step away from being finished methamphetamine.

Deputies also found empty match books, several empty cans of camp fuel, acetone and other chemicals known to be used in the meth-making process.

Baker, 27, was charged with one count of manufacturing methamphetamine and lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center.

In April, a Laurel County Grand Jury indicted Baker on charges of manufacturing methamphetamine, driving while license is suspended/revoked for driving under the influence — third or greater offense, possession of drug paraphernalia, first-degree fleeing or evading police, speeding and operating a vehicle with expired registration plate.

Staff writer Dean Manning may be reached at dmannning@sentinel-echo.com.