METHAMPHETAMINE LAB Barberton woman pleads guilty, awaits sentencing on drug charges

By BOB JACKSON
VINDICATOR COURTHOUSE REPORTER
YOUNGSTOWN -- A Barberton woman pleaded guilty Friday to charges stemming from discovery of a secret methamphetamine lab last summer at a Berlin Township campground.
Jacqueline Johnson, 35, who also lists addresses in Akron and Berlin Center, now awaits sentencing by Judge Jack Durkin of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.
She could get up to five years in prison for each charge of illegally manufacturing drugs and illegal assembly of chemicals for manufacturing drugs. She also could be placed on probation and fined up to $10,000 for each count.
Judge Durkin ordered the Community Corrections Association to conduct a background check on Johnson to assist him at sentencing. She was allowed to remain free on bond in the meantime.
Assistant Prosecutor Gina Arnaut said Johnson was charged after a fire was reported June 30, 2003, at Lakeside Campground on Bedell Road, about 200 yards north of U.S. Route 224.
Discovery
Firefighters discovered the methamphetamine lab, which had been built onto the trailer with plywood. Johnson was not there at the time, but authorities said she had rented the lot where the trailer was parked.
Investigators found propane tanks, beakers, chemicals, a work table and suspected methamphetamine residue in the makeshift lab. The propane tanks provided heat to cook the drug, authorities said.
Methamphetamine is an addictive stimulant manufactured in clandestine labs, which are usually small and utilize common household appliances, glassware and chemicals. It can be manufactured into chunks, pills or powder to be smoked, ingested or snorted.
A second suspect, Michael E. Rhodes, 31, of Kenmore, Ohio, also faces drug charges stemming from discovery of the lab, Arnaut said.
bjackson@vindy.com