A Newnan man was arrested at the Peachtree City Walmart Aug. 2 on charges of attempting to manufacture methamphetamine after his suspicious behavior resulted in a call to officers and the discovery of items used to manufacture the drug.
Steve McLeroy, 40, was charged with attempt to manufacture a controlled substance (methamphetamine), obstruction of an officer, reckless conduct and possession of less than an ounce of marijuana, according the Peachtree City Police Maj. Mike Dupree.
Dupree said officers responded to the Walmart after being alerted by employees that McLeroy had been acting suspiciously. Walmart staff advised officers that McLeroy had visited the store on another occasion and had exhibited similar behavior, Dupree added. Employees stated that on this occasion the man had been approached by staff and had subsequently become disorderly, he said.
Officers arrived, spoke with McLeroy and received consent to search his backpack, Dupree said. The search revealed a small amount of marijuana and a homemade portable device used to manufacure methamphetamine, Dupree said.
Dupree said McLeroy attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended.
Due to the gravity of the situation and the potential exposure to meth lab hazardous chemicals, the Drug Enforcement Agency Clandestine Lab Team was contacted to assist with the investigation, Dupree said.
