Published: September 25, 2009 08:29 am      

Investigation leads to meth bust

PICAYUNE — A Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department investigation led to the arrest of two suspects in a methamphetamine case.

Chief Investigator Donnie Saucier said the operation was conducted on Sept. 17. Investigators using information provided to them concerning the suspected manufacture of methamphetamine brought about the arrest of Katherine Russ, 46, of Pearlington and Paula Frierson, 40, of 18 Asa McQueen Rd.

The investigators went to Frierson’s home accompanied by Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics agents. The team knocked on the door and as Frierson opened the door they could smell a strong odor that is usually associated with the production of methamphetamine, Saucier said.

Based on the evidence gathered on scene, a search warrant was requested. While the agents and investigators waited for the warrant to be approved, they saw Russ pull up to Frierson’s home. Russ was detained for questioning.

When the search warrant was granted, the search of Frierson’s home found an alleged active methamphetamine cook along with several precursor items. Inside Russ’ vehicle was a straw with white powder residue believed to be methamphetamine, Saucier said.

Based off evidence collected in the investigation, showing that both Frierson and Russ were involved with the active lab inside the home, both suspects were charged with manufacture of a controlled substance.