SUWANNEE COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) - Two men have been arrested after deputies got a tip the two were purchasing materials to make meth.
On March 23, investigators with the Suwannee County Sheriff's Office conducted a drugs investigation in the 7100 block of CR 136A surrounding the manufacture of methamphetamine.
During the investigation, they learned that a man, Thomas Leahy, had recently purchased pseudoephedrine to make meth.
When they searched Leahy's home, they found Sudafed, a cold compress pack, lighter fluid, and two double AA lithium batteries were located in his bedroom.
Leahy's roommate, Michael Cardona, was also subject to the search. In his bedroom, they found several lithium cell phone batteries, gloves, and needle nose pliers. When asked why he had these specific items, Cardona couldn't explain.
Deputies say that Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is a listed Precursor chemical. The cold compress (ammonium salt), lighter fluid (organic solvent) and batteries (lithium) are listed as Essential Chemicals under Florida Statute 893.033.
When combined, those items can be used to make meth.
Based on the investigation, Leahy and Cardona were arrested and transported to the Suwannee County Jail.
Leahy, 43, Live Oak, FL was charged with Possession of listed chemicals with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance. His bond has been set at $ 5,000.
Cardona, 36, Live Oak, FL was charged with Possession of listed chemicals with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance. His bond has been set at $ 5,000.
