Burglary investigation uncovers meth lab

Whitman County sheriff’s deputies working on a burglary investigation uncovered an operating methamphetamine lab in the Farmington area this week. Monte D. Estes, 53, was arrested and booked into Whitman County Jail before being released without bond on Tuesday. He is facing charges of possession of stolen property and manufacturing methamphetamine, said Undersheriff Ronald A. Rockness. Investigators served three search warrants late Monday and early Tuesday following burglaries in northern Whitman County. Suspects have been identified from Whitman County as well as from outside the county, and investigators have recently gained cooperation from several individuals connected with the operation, according to a press release. The Washington State Patrol and Department of Ecology helped with processing and clearing the meth lab.