Meth Lab Technicians

A clandestine laboratory (“meth lab”) is an illicit operation consisting of a sufficient combination of equipment and chemicals that either has been or could be used in the manufacture or synthesis of controlled substances.

With the increase in the number of clandestine laboratory seizures throughout the country, there has been an escalation of problems and hazards confronting law enforcement agencies that are called to the scene of these laboratories. Often, it is law enforcement officers who first encounter these laboratories and must ensure that they are investigated, dismantled, and disposed of appropriately.

To meet this need, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office currently has 13 certified Clandestine Laboratory Technicians (Meth Lab Technicians).  Clandestine Laboratory Technicians are trained to enter, seize, dismantle, and clean up methamphetamine laboratories.  Clandestine Laboratory Technicians handle a wide variety of hazardous chemicals used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.  Clandestine Laboratory Technicians are issued specialized equipment to protect them during this task.

Clandestine Laboratory Technicians are selected by the Sheriff and are required to attend a 40 hour minimum specialized training.  Clandestine Laboratory Technicians must also participate in a minimum 8 hour refresher course yearly, to update them on the latest trends used to manufacture methamphetamine.

If you have information on the location of a meth lab please call the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 304-357-4693 or click the “TIP LINE”  link below.

You may also review the Kanawha County Public Nuisance and Property Maintenance Ordinance pertaining to “meth labs”.