Drugstore theft investigation leads police to Bartow suspect's meth lab operation

BARTOW, Fla. - An arrest made for theft at a Bartow drugstore lead police to a meth lab brewing at the suspect’s home Monday, according to a Bartow Police release.

Officers responded to a retail theft at the Walgreens store at 395 E. Van Fleet.

During their investigation, they learned that the suspect was at his home, located on 750 S. Dudley Avenue.

Police found Michael Bottoms, 26, Thomas Baldridge , 39 and Kristyne Peed, 22,  inside the home.

At this time, Bottoms was arrested and charged with Retail Theft and unlawful use of a driver's license.  

Baldridge was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a driver's license.  Peed was arrested due to an outstanding burglary warrant and resisting an officer without violence.

An officer then received a tip from an anonymous source that Bottoms was manufacturing methamphetamine at the home.

Considering the fact that Bottoms had stolen Sudafed and a foul odor was being emitted from the home, HIDTA Detective Zawacki was notified.

During a search of the home, task force members found a working lab used to manufacture methamphetamine. 

As a result of the investigation, Bottoms, Baldridge and Peed all face additional charges of Trafficking in Methamphetamine over 28 grams- Felony 1, Manufacturing of Methamphetamine - Felony 2, Possession of listed chemicals - Felony 2, Maintaining a dwelling for drug manufacturing - Felony 2 and possession of drug paraphernalia - Misdemeanor 1.