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Westmoreland Co. Couple Accused In Meth Making Operation

BELL TOWNSHIP (KDKA) -- It doesn't look like much, but the state Attorney General's Office says the dilapidated trailer at 613 Kier Street in Salina, Westmoreland County, was a methamphetamine production facility.

Police say 49-year-old Robert Cass and 50-year-old Lisa Kirchartz were heading up the operation.

A man who runs a business nearby talked to KDKA about the couple and what they're accused of.

"The guy was gone 10 hours every day doing his business, remodeling, that's all I know," said the man who did not want to be identified.

However, the state Attorney General's Office said inside Cass's home, agents found containers full of hydrochloric acid, acetone and paint thinner - all volatile chemicals.

Investigators say Cass and Kirchartz would buy massive quantities of the main ingredient for meth, pseudoephedrine, at area pharmacies.

Investigators found alleged evidence in a burn pit in the rear of the trailer.

In the ashes, agents found what they say were burn out aerosol cans of brake cleaner, another part of the meth making process. Neighbors say the couple would babysit Kirchartz's grandson often.

The toddler's toys plainly visible in and around a structure that authorities say could have exploded due to the chemicals inside.

The trailer was so polluted, authorities allegedly told the neighbors it was not fit for human habitation.

The investigation is ongoing.

Cass and Kirchartz are in the Westmoreland County Jail on multiple drug charges. They are being held on $100,000 straight cash bond.

RELATED LINKS:
More Westmoreland County News
More Reports by Ross Guidotti

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