THOMASVILLE — Ammonia nitrate derived from cold compresses is the newest methamphetamine ingredient.

With Georgia laws that restrict possession of anhydrous ammonia and ephedrine, longtime methamphetamine-manufacturing staples, ammonia nitrate is the latest substitute component.

“This is a relatively new way to make methamphetamine,” said Kevin Lee, commander of the Thomas County/Thomasville Narcotics/Vice Division.

The ammonia-nitrate route to making the contraband is quicker, Lee said, but it can be dangerous.

“You could actually have explosions using this method,” he explained.

The ingredient was among the meth components found at 58 Rena Ave., where narcotics agents arrived after receiving a tip.

Officers encountered Paul Spence, 35, who lives at the residence, Derrick Lee Brinson, 27, 600 block of East Clay Street, and Victoria M. Singletary, 19, 121 Eagles Landing Drive.

Lawmen were getting information about the trio using, selling and making methamphetamine at the Rena Avenue address.

Spence is on probation for a drug conviction. “We found a quantity of methamphetamine in his pocket,” Lee said.

A search of the dwelling produced meth ingredients in a garage area.

“We also found a bag. It was inside a large potting soil bag inside a trash bag,” Lee explained.

Contents of the bag included ammonia nitrate derived from cold compresses, salt, lithium, batteries, matchbooks and drain line opener, along with other meth ingredients.

Spence, Brinson and Singletary are charged with manufacturing methamphetamine. Spence and Brinson also are charged with methamphetamine possession.

In another meth case, Donnie Hurst, 38, and Michelle Hurst, 40, 305 Oak Hill Road, ran into the bathroom of their home when narcotics agents arrived.

Officers found a plastic wrap of the drug in the toilet and a meth smoking device in a trash can.

The Hursts are charged with possession of methamphetamine.



Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820.