Wyoming
Division of Criminal Investigation
1.
What is a “clan
lab”? It is a lab that is hidden and is
used to illegally manufacture controlled substance such as Methamphetamine.
2.
Are clan labs
dangerous? Yes, due to the type of chemicals
and processes used to manufacture illegal drugs, labs can explode, catch fire
and contaminate the soil, water and air near the lab. They can be extremely
dangerous.
3.
How do I know a lab is
being operated? Strong chemical odors
like urine, ether, an ammonia or acetone are usually associated with a
clandestine laboratory. Lab operators will also use chemicals such as sulfuric
acid, hydrochloric acid, muriatic acid,
red phosphorous, iodine and fuels such as Coleman fuel, paint thinner, starting
fluid, Red Devil lye, propane, kerosene, lithium batteries and sources of
ephedrine such as large quantities of over the counter cold medications, stay
awake tablets, etc.,
4.
What should I do if I
find a clandestine lab? Report it to
law enforcement at once. Do not move or otherwise tamper with a clandestine
lab. You run the risk of fire, explosion and serious injury or death from
chemical contamination.
5.
Is operation of a
clandestine lab a violation of law? Yes, operation of a clandestine lab is a
violation under both state and federal law. The Wyoming Legislature passed the
Wyoming Clandestine Lab Act that took effect on 07-01-99. It provides for
enhanced penalties for the operation of a clandestine lab, contamination of the
environment by a lab or waste products, manufacturing with a lab within 500
feet of schools, residences or business and use of firearm or booby trap in a
clan lab operation.
6.
Are clan labs a problem
in Wyoming? Yes. In 1997 three labs were seized in Wyoming. In 1998, twelve
labs were seized. In 1999, twenty labs were seized. In 2002, 19 labs were
seized and in 2001 29 labs were seized.
It costs an average of $5000 per
lab to clean up and dispose of hazardous materials from each lab.
7. What is DCI doing about clandestine
labs? We have trained and equipped all DCI field offices, the State Crime
Laboratory and Regional Enforcement Teams in the investigation and safe
processing of clandestine laboratories.
We work jointly with local and federal law enforcement agencies such as
the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on these cases. For more
information regarding illegal drugs please click on this DEA web site http://www.dea.gov/