Sunday, May 24, 2009

Two Charged With Stealing Drugs From Manufacturing Plant

   Two local men were apprehended by law enforcement officials late last week on federal drug conspiracy charges after they allegedly stole drugs from an Alabama pharmaceutical manufacturer.

   Authorities report that members of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department helped identify two suspects as being members of a flooring crew that had performed work at the Qualitest Pharmaceutical Plant in Huntsville, Alabama. During the time the crew was at the business, authorities allege that some 85,000 Hydrocodone tablets were stolen. According to officials, Lawrenceburg residents Michael Barnett and Michael Newton were arrested on federal charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute the drug.

   Authorities allege that Newton obtained a key from a lock box that allowed him access to the Controlled Substance area of the plant. They indicate that he and Barnett transferred the pills to their flooring supply boxes, then smuggled them to Loretto where they divided the contraband.

   Officials report they were able to recover the pills from the homes of Barnett and Newton.

   The case remains under investigation through the Drug Enforcement Agency. Prosecution will be handled by officials with the Middle District of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.