Meth Lab Found Near School In Rowan County

ROCKWELL, N.C. — Investigators say five “shake and bake” meth labs were found at a home near an elementary school in Rowan County.

The SBI executed a search warrant at a home on China Grove Highway in Rockwell Monday.

During the search, officials say they discovered five shake and bake meth labs and four hydrochloric acid generators on the property.  A small amount of finished meth was also found inside a bedroom, according to a news release.

Christopher Rathburn, 20, and Michael Flake, 33, were arrested.  Rathburn has been charged with conspiracy to manufacture meth and possession of an immediate precursor chemical, pseudoephedrine.

Flake has been charged with manufacturing meth, possession of immediate precursor chemicals, lithium batteries and pseudoephedrine, maintaining a dwelling for keeping and selling controlled substances, possession of meth, possession of hydrocodone and manufacturing meth within 1000 feet of a school, Rockwell Elementary School.

Flake’s bond was set at $60,000 and Rathburn’s bond was set at $20,000.