2 arrested in Vidalia for drug lab operation

Published 12:07 am Saturday, December 7, 2013

VIDALIA — Two Vidalia residents were arrested Tuesday after narcotics agents uncovered a drug lab operation at the Riverview RV Park, which resulted in the seizure of 14 pounds of synthetic marijuana and weapons.

Adams County Metro Narcotics Unit officers identified and intercepted a package scheduled for delivery to Bradford Lee Watkins at 100 Riverview Park Lot No. 35.

The officers contacted Concordia Parish Narcotics Task Force agents and set up a controlled delivery of the package under supervision of the narcotics officers.

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Once the package was delivered and signed for by Watkins, the agents served search warrants for his trailer and vehicle.

The search of the trailer revealed 14 pounds of synthetic marijuana, leafy marijuana, packaging materials, weigh scales, chemicals used to mix in the synthetic marijuana, a labeling machine, a heat sealer, computers used to receive online orders for the purchase of the drugs and numerous weapons including pistols, rifles and shotguns, according to Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office public information officer Vernon Stevens.

Drug paraphernalia, ledgers of sales and postal receipts for the shipment of drugs as well as other narcotics were also recovered.

A travel trailer and a Ford F350 belonging to Watkins were also seized.

Watkins and Deonca Marie Watkins, 34, 100 Riverview Park Lot. No 35, were both arrested and charged with creation of a clandestine drug lab, felony possession of schedule I narcotics with intent to distribute, felony possession of synthetic marijuana, felony possession of schedule II narcotics, felony possession of schedule III narcotics with intent to distribute, felony possession of firearms while in possession of controlled dangerous substances and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both remain under arrest in the Concordia Parish Jail with a cash bond of $220,750 each.