Police Discover Illegal Lab in West Deptford Man’s Garage During Arrest
Authorities uncovered an illegal lab inside a West Deptford man’s garage while arresting him for violating a restraining order, officials said.
Scott Jamerson, 53, was taken into custody Thursday morning after New Jersey State Police arrived at his home on 225 Walnut St. around 11 a.m. to serve a warrant for violating a final restraining order. Officers found him inside his detached garage and placed him under arrest.
While securing the property, police discovered what appeared to be a lab, according to West Deptford Police Chief Michael Franks. Due to the nature of the find, multiple agencies—including the FBI, hazmat teams, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives—were called in to investigate and secure the scene.
Authorities have not yet disclosed details about what was found inside the garage. However, Jamerson was later charged with causing or risking widespread injury or damage, unlawful possession of weapons or ammunition, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance.
Walnut Street was shut down for several hours during the investigation. Despite the disruption, Franks reassured the public that there was no ongoing threat.
“This was an isolated incident,” Franks said. “I want to assure residents in the immediate area and the broader West Deptford community that this situation was handled swiftly and professionally, with no immediate risk to public safety.”
Jamerson was initially booked into Cumberland County Jail for violating the restraining order. He will be transferred to Salem County Jail, which provides jailing services for Gloucester County, to face additional charges related to the lab.