Updated 2 p.m.
APPLETON -- Law enforcement officials found no methamphetamine, no meth precursors or hazardous materials during a search of a suspected meth lab along the 200 block of South Miles Street in Appleton.
A juvenile male was placed under arrest for probable cause by the Appleton Police Department, questioned and then released to his legal guardians, according to Sheriff Scott Mattison. Some aspects of the case remain under investigation.
The Swift County Sheriff's office received a report of a possible meth lab at the home around 8 p.m. Thursday. The home was evacuated and the officials sought assistance and consultation from the CEE-VI Drug Task Force, the county attorney, city public works, the Minnesota Duty Officer, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Willmar Fire Department mobile decontamination team, the Appleton Hospital and West Central Environmental Services.
The search revealed no meth or substances. By 10:30 p.m., officials determined that there was no threat to public safety and the occupants were permitted to return home. All on-scene activities did end by 11:30 p.m.
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Even though meth has not much attention recently, Mattison notes that law enforcement and public safety officials continue to be wary of the drug's impact. People who consume, sell or try to manufacture the drug pose a wide variety of hazards. Citizens who need help or want to report illegal activities are urged to contact local law enforcement. In Swift County, call 320-289-2356, 320-843-3113, 320-264-5972 or 911.
