Children services removes children from home

FRANKLIN FURNACE — Several children were removed from a home in Franklin Furnace on Monday after deputies allegedly found meth making materials.

According to a release from Scioto County Sheriff Marty V. Donini, deputies responded to the home at 87 Elbert Ave. to investigate allegations of domestic violence and assault.

“During their investigation, deputies discovered chemicals and materials used to manufacture methamphetamine,” the release stated. “A detective from the drug task force responded to the residence to assist in the investigation and remove the chemicals and materials related to methamphetamine manufacturing.”

Arrested were Anthony L. Stapleton, 31, and Sara L. Watts, 32, both of 87 Elbert Ave.

They were both charged with third-degree illegal assembly or possession of chemicals for the manufacture of drugs.

At the request of deputies, Scioto County Children Services responded to the scene. Several children were removed from the residence for their safety, according to the release.

According to the release, Stapleton was wanted in Lawrence County on a count of failure to appear to a municipal court hearing involving an allegation of theft. Watts was also found to have an outstanding warrant for her arrest that had been issued by the Portsmouth Municipal Court for violating probation.

The pair was arraigned Tuesday in Portsmouth Municipal Court. Each pleaded not guilty and signed $10,000 own-recognizance bonds. They are both expected to return to court on Jan. 2 for preliminary hearings.

The case will be forwarded to the Scioto County Prosecutor’s Office to be presented to a grand jury for the consideration of additional felony criminal charges.

Anyone wishing to leave drug information for the Southern Ohio Drug Task Force, can call the task force tip line at 740-354-5656 or email drugs@sciotocountysheriff.com. All information will be kept confidential and anonymous.