By LAWRENCE MESSINA, Associated Press
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- A new state law aimed at methamphetamine trafficking arrived too late for State Police Sgt. Mark Cruickshank, but officials hope it will give pause to criminals who would cook up the dangerous drug.
State Police on Wednesday heralded a new felony offense that threatens a two- to 10-year prison sentence for operating or assembling the necessary chemicals for a meth lab. Selling the drug is already a state and federal crime.
“The new law is a great weapon in our arsenal when prosecuting clandestine lab operators,” Superintendent Howard Hill said.
Earlier in the day, the Consolidated Public Retirement Board voted to extend disability benefits to Cruickshank, ending his 11 years with the department.
Board members learned that Cruickshank was dismantling a makeshift Kanawha Valley meth lab in October 1999 when his air pack ran out.
The lab was in a confined space, and Cruickshank inhaled fumes from the noxious chemicals mixed to create meth. Waste from these labs has been likened to hydrochloric acid, and can combust when mixed.
“He very shortly after that began experiencing shortness of breath,” said Alex Macia, general counsel to Gov. Bob Wise and his representative at Wednesday’s board meeting. “He has since lost 30 percent of his lung capacity.”
The board granted Cruickshank’s disability request after reviewing medical records that link the meth lab incident to potentially fatal bronchial spasms.
A recent report from federal prosecutors said West Virginia is experiencing an explosion in the illegal production and use of meth.
Law enforcement across West Virginia busted more than 100 meth labs statewide, after dismantling only 13 the year before. Within the past six months, the State Police alone have investigated 30 such labs.
“Clandestine labs are an epidemic that will continue to grow unless the violators are severely punished for their actions,” Hill said. “This law is welcomed and will be strictly enforced.”
Police find the labs in homes, barns, rented motel rooms and even in the back seats and trunks of cars. The chemicals used are considered so hazardous, law enforcement has teamed up with state and federal environmental protection officials to clean up the labs and prosecute offenders.