METHMINNVILLE NAME STILL FITS

The new year started off much as the last year ended as lawmen have already
raided a pair of methamphetamine labs in 2002. "We're still after them,"
said Sheriff Jackie Matheny following the recent raids. "We lost count of
how many labs we found last year. It seemed like we were getting one or two
every week, almost every time we turned around there was another lab."

The first alleged lab of the year was found at the New Bildad home of
Johnny Leslie Argo, 31. According to Matheny, deputies obtained information
a clandestine lab was in operation at the Argo residence. When they arrived
to investigate, they reportedly found numerous items in the home commonly
used in the production of meth.

The items included, but were not limited to crystal iodine, muratic acid
and jugs with tubes attached to them. Matheny said officers also found jugs
containing layered liquid which have been sent for analysis. Normally,
layered liquids indicate meth in its early stages of production.

The next lab was hit Thursday evening when deputies raided the Saw Mill
Road home of Randy Eugene Davenport, 42. Much like the Argo lab, Matheny
said officers found numerous items used in the production of meth.

Argo is charged with manufacture of meth while Davenport, in what is
believed to be an unrelated lab, is charged with criminal attempt to
manufacture meth.

Given the fact the meth epidemic is still in full swing, Matheny said
lawmen ask for the public's help in identifying where the illegal product
is being made. Anyone with any information concerning a lab is asked to
contact investigators at 473-8738. Identities of persons giving information
will be kept confidential.