ZEPHYRHILLS - A routine traffic stop ended with two felony arrests Tuesday after troopers discovered a complete methamphetamine lab in the trunk of a car.
About 9:30 p.m. Florida Highway Patrol troopers stopped Anthony Barton, 44, near the intersection of Chancey Road and Highway 39.
Barton of 6740 Dairy Road in Zephyrhills was cited for three smaller scale traffic violations, including having a blue light on his car's hood, the FHP reported. He was also charged with driving with a suspended license, a criminal offense.
In a search of the vehicle with Barton's consent, the trooper reported finding a mobile lab for producing methamphetamine. A Pasco County narcotics detective was then called to the scene.
Another substance used for cutting or diluting the drug was found on Barton's passenger, George Surratt Jr., 40, of 38646 Fir Ave. in Zephyrhills, the Sheriff's Office reported.
Barton and Surratt were charged with possession of listed chemicals and remained at Land O'Lakes Jail on Wednesday. Barton was held in lieu of $30,000 bail on the drug and traffic charges. Surratt was held in lieu of $25,000 bail on the drug charge.
