ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – Two meth lab incidents Monday, one in St. Johns County and one in Jacksonville, were connected, according to investigators.
On Monday morning, detectives in St. Johns County found a mobile meth lab in a truck parked on Kerri Lynn Road and arrested two people -- 37-year-old Scott Smith and 29-year-old Amanda Albert (both pictured below). On Monday afternoon, police in Jacksonville found meth chemicals at an Arlington home on Heidi Road.
Victor Alden (pictured at bottom of story), 59, the owner of the trailer where the truck was parked in St. Johns County, has since been arrested on drug trafficking charges.
St. Johns County deputies said Albert has ties to the Arlington home, where police found meth supplies, chemicals and other drugs like Sudafed that are used to make meth.
"(Detectives) got some information that led them to believe something may be occurring in Jacksonville, so we contacted the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office immediately, because, of course, with any criminal investigation, we are talking about a criminal element," Sgt. Catherine Payne said.
Police did not find any suspects in Arlington, just supplies to make meth. Investigators said the homeowner is related to Albert.
Neighbors of the Arlington home said they didn't recognize those arrested but have seen a lot of activity at the house.
"Very surprised. This is a quiet neighborhood," Ronald Butler said. "It was shocking when I came home yesterday and saw the police around here."
In St. Johns County, neighbors said they know those involved but are worried about speaking out. Even though deputies have made arrests, some neighbors believe others are waiting to take over. One woman who does not want to be identified said it's the kids she's worried about.
The truck in the mobile meth lab has been impounded.