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Volusia County cracks down on meth labs, users

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Volusia County officials said they are cracking down on methamphetamine labs, and they want stiffer sentences for those arrested in connection to the crimes.

Investigators said Volusia County has the highest number of meth labs in Central Florida.

Since January 2012, detectives said they have been working “Operation Shake n’ Bake,” which is the technique used in small one-pot meth labs.

Police said they focused on dealers and meth cookers in Daytona Beach. They said during the investigation, 31 men and women were charged with a number of drug charges; 11 of them have been convicted, 13 are facing a trial and police are still looking for seven.

Volusia County had close to 100 meth labs dismantled in 2012.

Police Chief Michael Chitwood said they're going to do everything they can to stop the problem.

"If you're going to cook meth in the city of Daytona Beach, I can't show you their faces behind you, but there's a group of men that are coming after you to get you. We're going to get you. Sooner or later, we're going to get you because there is no honor among thieves," said Chitwood.

Some of the people arrested will spend months in prison, but others, up to five years in prison.