Over the next few weeks hunters will be taking to the woods and farmers will begin the fall harvest. Along with these activities, the anticipated change of the leaves to their fall colors will have many people enjoying walks through the woods or along the county roads to take in natureís beauty. While engaged in any of these fall activities your Indiana State Police would like to remind citizens to be alert for evidence of Methamphetamine Labs and marijuana growing operations.
This is the time of year marijuana growers will begin to harvest their ‘crop’. Farmers working in the fields as well as hunters and hikers are encouraged to be alert for marijuana plots or single plants. This time of year marijuana plants can still be green or may be beginning to turn yellow. A mature plant can be as tall as 12 feet and will always have an odd number of serrated leaves.
Farmers, hunters, and hikers should also be alert for evidence of methamphetamine operations while engaged in these fall activities. ‘Meth cooks’ will often discard ‘meth lab trash’ used to manufacture ìmethî along rural roadways. The various chemicals used to cook meth are very volatile and could cause an explosion, fire, or severe burns if touched. To avoid serious injury citizens should keep in mind the points listed below.
‘Meth cooks’ use a variety of containers to manufacture their product. A popular container is the one and a half gallon gas can. These cans appear to be new and may be found along the roadside by unknowing people who believe that they have found a new gas can and end up with a working meth lab.
Other items to be aware of include battery casings, Ziploc style bags, empty blister packs of cold medicines, and containers, (pop bottles, jars, etc.), that contain a granular material. They may or may not have a tube extending out of the top depending on whether it is a hydrochloric (HCL) gas generator or a one pot reaction. Both of these are extremely hazardous.
Be aware of any type of cylinder found in an odd place, (middle of a field, ditch line, wooded area), that has a modified valve. The valve will typically be modified in some way and will have a bright blue color to it. These cylinders are used to store or transport anhydrous ammonia, which is an extremely dangerous gas when direct contact or inhalation has occurred.
Anyone who thinks they may have located marijuana plants or ìmeth trashî or has any information concerning marijuana or ‘meth operations’ is encouraged to contact any police agency.
