Methamphetamine lab arrest in Flagler Estates

Late last night, Historic City News local crime desk reporters learned that a 41 year-old Hastings man was arrested and charged with possession of drugs to manufacture methamphetamine.

Deputies and Fire Rescue personnel responded to a residence on Turpin Avenue in Flagler Estates at 10:15 p.m. following an E-911 call from a 28 year-old Hastings woman who stated that she, along with a friend, came over to the Turpin Avenue home and were walking around the yard.

The woman looked inside a trash can and observed what she believed to be products used to produce methamphetamine.

To get a better look inside, the woman produced and lit a lighter. The fumes from the can ignited causing minor burns to the woman’s face.

Her friend went to a neighbor’s home and called the Sheriff’s Office. The victim was treated at the scene and then transported to Flagler Hospital for additional treatment.

Special Investigations Detectives responded and took into evidence numerous items used to manufacture methamphetamine.

The occupant of the home, identified as James Nicholas Lacaze, 10425 Turpin Avenue, was arrested and booked into the St. Johns County Detention Facility where he remains in lieu of $25,000 bond following a first appearance hearing this morning.

The investigation is continuing.