VIDEO: Conversion Meth Lab Uncovered at Kihei Home

[flashvideo file=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VanM7FUuwc /] By Wendy Osher

Maui police uncovered a clandestine methamphetamine conversion lab at a home in Kihei on Maui yesterday.

The discovery was made during a search of the home located at 144 Luakaha Circle in South Maui at around 1:20 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013.

Members of the Crime Reduction Unit and Special Response Team executed a search warrant of the home, where a lone adult male, identified as Steven E. Jones was arrested, said Maui Police Department spokesperson Lieutenant Wayne K. Ibarra.

Photo courtesy Maui Police Department.

During the search police say they recovered six mopeds (two of which were confirmed to be reported stolen, and four which were suspected to be stolen); 15 methadone hydrochloride 10mg pills; two glass smoking pipes containing crystal methamphetamine; paraphernalia associated with the use and/or distribution of crystal methamphetamine; 14 Win 30-30 rounds of ammunition; a “black jack“ dangerous weapon; and identification belonging to 52-year-old Steven E. Jones and the ID of a female.

Police also recovered a plastic container from the man’s bedroom containing items suspected for use in a conversion methamphetamine lab. Police say the items included tubing, beakers, glassware, and several jars containing a clear substance.

Photo courtesy Maui Police Department.

Upon locating the suspected lab, police contacted Lieutenant William Juan of the Vice Division and Clandestine Lab Team to confirm the findings.

Lt. Juana reportedly confirmed that the photo did depict a possible lab, and activated the department’s Clan Lab Team to respond to the scene.

Upon arrival, the Clan Lab Team confirmed the presence of a conversion type methamphetamine lab, although it was not actively functioning at the time of inspection.

Steven E. Jones. Photo courtesy Maui Police Department.

Team personnel moved the lab from the residence and assisted with the recovery of evidence which included: three glass jars containing clear liquid which tested positive for the presence of methamphetamine; a ziplock baggie containing orangish coffee filters which tested positive for the presence of methamphetamine; three ball flasks; and one small beaker glass.

Maui police say the Narcotics Enforcement Division of the Hawai’i Department of Health was contacted, in order to assist with the recovery and disposal of all remaining precursor materials and equipment through the company PENCO.

This morning, Maui police said the residence was still being manned by two Maui police officers who were positioned to secure the remaining precursor materials and equipment. They were being stationed at the home in anticipation of the arrival of PENCO personnel to recover and dispose of the hazardous materials properly.