Upon her arrival, Deputy Rodriguez’s observations lent credibility to the tipster’s allegations. He could smell a strong odor of solvent emitting from the house and observed several empty boxes of ephedrine outside the home along with HCL generators and cut tubing. HCL generators are commonly used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.
Deputy Rodriguez made contact with occupants Taura Hammil, 30, and William Blan, 25, upon arriving at the residence.
During a conversation with the suspects, Hammil told Deputy Rodriguez there “might be” a meth cook lab inside the house. She stated there were plastic tubes, chemicals, batteries and other supplies used to manufacture methamphetamine scattered throughout the house, according to reports.
UDEST Agents responded to assist. UDEST Agents obtained, and executed, a search warrant at the residence. During the course of the search, agents found five “head jars” (aka Gatorade bottles) in the freezer. Once the methamphetamine oil was separated from the “head jars,” the contents tested positive for methamphetamine. The total weight was 692 grams.
In addition to the methamphetamine, agents found glass pipes, clear baggies, spoons and scales; all of which tested positive for methamphetamine residue.
Three clear bags of methamphetamine were also found in Hammil’s purse.
In the front yard agents found a black bag labeled “Joker.” Inside the bag was approximately nine (9) grams of synthetic marijuana of which Hammil admitted was hers.
Both Hammil and Blan were arrested and transported to the Marion County Jail.
Hammil was charged with Trafficking Methamphetamine, Possession of Methamphetamine With Intent to Sell, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Synthetic Marijuana. She is being held on $62,500 bond.
Blan was charged with Trafficking Methamphetamine Over 200 Grams. He is being held on $50,000 bond.
Blan was also arrested in May of 2014 and charged with Possession of Methamphetamine.
Hammil told agents she sells “meth” so she can pay her bills and “get by.”