MCSO: suspects were cooking meth inside post office

CHUNCHULA, Ala. (WALA) - A constable checking his mail in Chunchula got a shock when he discovered a meth lab in the most unusual of places.

Wednesday, a 15-year-old is behind bars and a man with a lengthy criminal history is on the run after they were seen cooking meth inside the Chunchula post office on, according to authorities.

The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office said it all happened around eight Tuesday night.

Sgt. Joe Mahoney told FOX10 News what happened.

"A state constable saw two subjects crouch down behind the table where you prepare your mail or package. And there was this strong odor," said Sgt. Mahoney. "When he approached, one fled on foot. The other he was able to detain at the scene, a 15-year-old."

The teen was arrested and charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance and trafficking meth.

The other suspect got away but police say they know who he is.Deputies are not ready to reveal his name.

"Based on his arrest history, hopefully we will be able to take this to a federal level. Especially since this happened on federal property. We wanted to wait and have all of our ducks in the row before we release his name," said Sgt. Mahoney.

Folks in the area were a bit surprised by the brazen criminals cooking meth in a public place.

"I had no idea, I only come down here once a week," said Citronelle resident April Edmunds. "I had no idea. I am very surprised."

Cindy Taylor, who never leaves home without her goat "Little Bit", said the law needs to be tougher. “Little Bit” was riding shotgun on Wednesday while she checked her mail.

"They don't do nothing to them, but just a slap on the wrist," said Taylor. "Makes it too easy to keep doing crime."

Taylor hopes her goat is the only unusual sight in these parts from now on.