Two 'shake and bake' meth labs busted in two weeks in Stoddard County

BERNIE, Mo. -- A "shake and bake" methamphetamine lab was discovered in Stoddard County this week, the second of that type to be found in 10 days in the county.

According to Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner, the bust came as the result of a routine vehicle stop. Upon pulling the vehicle over, police reportedly found the occupants in possession of marijuana along with illegal prescription drugs and methamphetamine ingredients.

Further investigation into the incident led sheriff's deputies to an address in Bernie. Upon searching the residence, deputies reportedly located the methamphetamine lab.

Three people were arrested:

Stephen Garrett Cantrell, 23, of Bloomfield, Mo., was charged with possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of methamphetamine precursors and possession of drug

paraphernalia. Bond was set at $125,000, cash only.

Kevin Matthew Henson, 36, of Dexter, Mo., was charged with manufacture of methamphetamine, possession of controlled substances (methamphetamine and hydrocodone), possession of methamphetamine precursors and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bond was set at $175,000, cash only.

Lauren Marie Story, 22, of Bernie was charged with manufacture of methamphetamine, possession of controlled substances (methamphetamine and hydrocodone), possession of methamphetamine precursors and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bond was set at $125,000.

While shake and bake meth labs are relatively new to the county, it makes them no less important, according to Hefner.

Hefner said the labs are highly volatile and dangerous. He advises anyone who comes across a suspicious bottle or container to immediately call the sheriff's office and stay away from it.