Meth Bust in School Zone Near Three Rivers Results in 3 Arrests

On Thursday January 9, three individuals were arrested after authorities found evidence of methamphetamine production at a home near Three Rivers High School, according to news reports at Mlive.com.

Officers with SCAN (St. Joseph County Area Narcotics) received a tip regarding the use of methamphetamine at the residence, located in the 400 block of 4th Avenue in Three Rivers. Upon executing a search warrant, officers discovered evidence that meth had been used and produced on the property.

Three individuals who were at the home were arrested; their names have not been released pending arraignment. The suspects include a 30-year-old woman and two men who are 53 and 63 years old. All are said to be residents of Three Rivers. The three face charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, maintaining a drug house, and operating/maintaining a meth lab within a school zone.

In Michigan, methamphetamine is a Schedule 2 illicit narcotic. This essentially means it is a highly addictive and abused substance. Those convicted of a meth offense will face serious and life-changing penalties. When a drug offense occurs within close proximity of a school as in this case, penalties may be enhanced.

Possession of methamphetamine will leave those convicted facing penalties which include fines of up to $15,000 and a maximum of 10 years in prison. However, when an individual is convicted of meth possession with intent to deliver/distribute, the criminal penalties increase substantially and include fines of up to $25,000 along with up to 20 years in prison. The maximum penalties for meth manufacture are the same, however those with children may lose their parental rights, face asset forfeiture, and more.

Manufacturing methamphetamine in a school zone is a very serious charge. If you have been accused of a serious drug offense or have already been arrested or charged, it is critical you speak with a seasoned Michigan drug crime lawyer immediately. Your attorney will work to minimize the damage and protect your legal rights and freedom.