Suspected Methamphetamine Synthetic Lab dismantled in downtown apartment building
(Ottawa Ontario) — On Sunday February 26th, just before 10pm, patrol officers of the Ottawa Police Service attended a 4th floor apartment at 345 Clarence Street to check on the well-being of a male resident, Laurence WHEATCROFT (40 years), at the request of the family.
There was a strong chemical odour emanating from the apartment.
A follow-up with the family revealed that they also had concerns WHEATCROFT had previously tried to “cook” (manufacture) Crystal Meth (methamphetamines) and that may account for the chemical smell.
WHEATCROFT was apprehended and transported to hospital.
Ottawa Fire Services Hazmat attended the scene and confirmed there was no explosive hazard present from the apartment. The unit was ventilated and secured.
The Ottawa Police Service Drug Unit was granted a search warrant for the apartment.
With assistance from the OPP Clandestine Laboratory Response Team, OFD Hazmat and Ottawa Paramedic Services the Drug Unit investigators cleared the apartment of all chemicals. Samples were seized for further analysis by Health Canada.
Given the fact that the tenant maintained a hoarding lifestyle the disposal process was only completed Tuesday, Feb 28th, at approximately 1130pm.
WHEATCROFT was held in custody on charges of unlawfully producing a schedule 1 substance contrary to CDSA 7(1) and possessing chemicals/substances to be used to produce a schedule 1 substance contrary to CDSA 7.1 (2).
Anyone with information regarding drug complaints is encouraged to contact the Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300.
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