By Joe Bachman

Two Wisconsin Rapids residents have been charged with the manufacturing, possession and illegal waste of methamphetamine.

On Nov. 22, a tip was given to police that two had been making methamphetamine in a residence on the 500 block of 3rd St. South. After police entered the residence they identified 39-year-old Daniel Card, and 37-year-old Michael Dawson.

An officer immediately observed the smell of lithium when inside, which is a strong indicator of the manufacture of methamphetamine. Police found a green bottle with liquid solution and a granular substance with a rectangular piece floating on top of it. They also found an active one-pot used to cook and manufacture methamphetamine.

After further search of the residence, police also found a hydro-chloride gas generator, a 32 ounce bottle of muriatic acid, a rubber hose, and lithium batteries; all used in the process of manufacturing methamphetamine. Police also found a discarded bag of ammonium nitrate, which is a byproduct of the manufacturing of the substance.

A hazmat team was called in a day later to clean up and remove the dangerous materials.

If convicted, the two each face up to 30 years imprisonment and over $50,000 in fines. Their preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Dec. 8.