SIMPSON -- Investigators said they caught three people--two men and one woman--cooking methamphetamine, a powerful stimulant at a home along Jefferson Street in Simpson Monday afternoon.
“They’re in there actively cooking. They’ll be charged with the drug charges and the meth violations,” said Chief Detective Joseph Jordan of the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office.
Police identified the suspects as Charles Dottle, 37, and Hilary McConnell, 30, who both live in the home in Simpson, and Joseph Rebar, 50, who investigators said is homeless.
People in nearby homes were told to leave for their own safety until the drugs finished cooking.
Fire and police crews secured the area.
“I’ve been here about 30 years and nothing like this has ever happened before, so it’s really concerning especially you know with my family. I have two small kids, so you know you don’t want any of this happening in your neighborhood,” said Patrick Ruddy who lives on Jefferson Street.
“I grew up in Simpson. I was raised in Simpson, and it’s just, I don’t know. I have no words. I can’t even describe how I feel right now. This world has become very sad, especially in a town you grew up in,” said Sara Kutch.
Members of law enforcement say this bust came after a three-week investigation.
"It’s dangerous and you know we’re actively pursuing them so the D.A.’s office, state police, we’re out here,” said Jordan.
The suspects were arraigned Tuesday morning.