Two arrested in Clay Co. meth lab bust

CLAY CO., Ind. (WTHI) - Two people were arrested in Clay County on charges connected to a meth lab bust carried out by multiple law enforcement officers Monday.

On Monday afternoon, Clay County dispatch received a report of a chemical odor emanating from a mobile home located in west central Clay County.  Clay County sheriff’s deputies located the home and confirmed the reports of the chemical odor.

Deputies approached the home, and attempted to remove the occupants from the home by requesting they exit the residence.  After multiple attempts Jerry Wells Jr., 34, of Terre Haute and Malena F Shumaker, 29, of Brazil stepped outside.

According to a release from Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), upon the suspects exit of the home, a “cloud of smoke” followed close behind.

With the assistance of the Brazil City police and Indiana state police, investigators with the CCSO proceeded to investigate the home, uncovering more than one methamphetamine lab within the dwelling, along with several items associated with manufacturing, possessing and ingesting meth.

Wells and Shumaker were arrested on charges of Manufacturing and Dealing Methamphetamine, Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Paraphernalia.