Published: June 05, 2009 09:49 am      

Sheriff’s Department makes meth arrest

CARRIERE — A large methamphetamine bust was worked by the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department Monday.

Chief Investigator Donnie Saucier said narcotics agents went to serve an assault warrant at 118 Reese Rd. in Carriere to arrest the home’s resident, 37 year-old Shannon Penton. Penton was home at the time of the agent’s arrival. During a conversation with Penton the agents picked up on statements she made that led the agents to believe there was a methamphetamine lab in the home. Those statements, along with other evidence gathered that day and over the previous several months, enabled the agents to secure a search warrant. Saucier said the evidence collected earlier was the reason narcotic agents were serving the warrant.

During the search the agents found about 11 grams of suspected methamphetamine individually packed for resale. Digital scales, two active methamphetamine labs and evidence of five old cooks also were found in the search, Saucier said.

Penton appeared to be using a bathroom and a closet in that bathroom as her primary lab site, Saucier said. Two firearms, a rifle and handgun, also were found in the home along with a small amount of marijuana.

Saucier said a child lived in the home, but was not home when the warrant was served.

“When you put children into these situations it’s extremely unfortunate and unacceptable,” Saucier said.

Saucier said the bust of Penton was significant, involving a large amount of chemicals. The chief investigator said it was one of the largest shake and bake methamphetamine labs he has seen in the past year and a half.

Brandon Richardson, 36 , also of 118 Reese Rd., Carriere, who is Penton’s live in boyfriend, also was arrested that day.

Both Penton and Richardson were charged with manufacturing methamphetamine, possession of precursors, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, all with fire arm enhancements. Penton additionally was charged with possession of marijuana and on the assault warrant.