Tip leads investigators to meth lab; 1 arrested

LINCOLN COUNTY — Lincoln County narcotics investigators discovered evidence of a meth lab in a wooded area on Monday following up on a tip received through the drug tip line.

Investigators went to an area in the 4600 block of Flay Road around 10:20 a.m. Monday where they discovered the remains of five one-pot meth labs and precursors.

According to a release from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, the evidence recovered at the scene led officers to Colby Ray Williams, 30, of Lincolnton.

Authorities said Williams had Coleman fuel, lye, cold compress, lithium batteries, and pseudoephedrine in his possession, all known precursors for the manufacture of meth.

Williams was charged with one felony count each of possess/distribute meth precursor and manufacturing a controlled substance schedule II.

He was placed in the Harven A. Crouse Detention Center without bond and is scheduled for a first court appearance Tuesday in Lincoln County District Court.

Authorities said the investigation into the incident is continuing and other arrests are possible in the case. It was the fifth meth lab found in Lincoln County during 2014.

Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Lt. Jason Reid reminded residents the majority of investigations stem from tips phoned in by the community.

The tip line number is 704-736-8422. The Sheriff's Office said all tips will be investigated.

WSOC