Arrests made in meth lab bust
MDEA busy with investigations
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — Two Presque Isle residents and a Limestone man have been arrested in connection with the latest meth lab bust on Sunset Loop, which took place on Feb. 13. A fourth individual, identified only as a Mars Hill juvenile, is also being sought in connection with the case.
“Members of the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency’s lab team seized evidence of methamphetamine manufacturing from a residence on Sunset Loop earlier last week after that activity caused a fire in the basement of the home,” said MDEA Division Commander Darrell Crandall.
Crandall said the investigation revealed those responsible, and three of the four have been charged. Presque Isle Fire Department had responded to a report of fire at the home. Upon arrival, firefighters notified Officers Kevin Schumacher and Brian McQuarrie, of the Presque Isle Police Department, that at least one individual was refusing to leave. While trying to get the person out, officers discovered evidence that resulted in the MDEA being called in.
“Brandon Hafford, 21, and Amber Getchell, 19 — both residents of 45 Sunset Loop — as well as 19-year-old Daniel Miller of Limestone have been arrested and charged with aggravated trafficking in methamphetamine, a Class A crime. The charges are aggravated because of the home’s proximity to schools,” said Crandall.
The Sunset Loop home is located not far from Northern Maine Community College, Presque Isle Middle School, SAD 1’s pre-K center and the Micmac Little Feathers Daycare. For tax purposes, the city of Presque Isle has the owner of the property listed as: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs.
“Miller is on bail for possession of methamphetamine, so has also been charged with violation of conditions of release. Getchell and Hafford posted bail, while Miller remains in jail,” said Crandall.
MDEA agents are seeking a juvenile from Mars Hill as well.
“Relatives of the juvenile made arrangements for him to leave the area, but agents know where he is. The juvenile will face the same charges,” Crandall said.
Crandall said there has been a surge in drub lab activity in recent months and that is a concern.
“This fire illustrates the danger these operations present — not just to those in the home but to neighbors, firefighters and others,” said Crandall.
The Fire Marshal’s Office is still investigating the fire and could potentially bring charges as well, said Crandall.
“Anyone with information on drug activity is asked to call the MDEA Office in Houlton at 532-5169, their local police or they may also call Aroostook County Crimestoppers at 800-638-8477,” said Crandall.
