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October 18, 2012

Woman charged in meth lab case

By JOSH NEWTON Staff Writer

TAHLEQUAH — Prosecutors have charged a second person in connection to an alleged methamphetamine lab found at a Tahlequah residence last month.

Violet Jean Colunga, 35, of Tahlequah, is charged with felony counts of endeavoring to manufacture a controlled dangerous substance and child endangerment.

Damian Wade Baldridge, 19, was charged earlier this week with endeavoring to manufacture.

Investigators say Colunga acted together with Baldridge and a second man, Jason L. Murphy, 30, to manufacture meth through a one-pot method in the 900 block of West Fox. Murphy was arrested at the scene but has not yet been formally charged.

Prosecutors also allege Colunga allowed her children to be present at the home where meth was being manufactured.

Investigators describe Colunga as the homeowner. She reportedly told authorities she had purchased pseudoephedrine for Murphy several times so he could cook meth.

When police searched Colunga’s home, they allegedly found Baldridge in close proximity to a two-layer liquid and a clear, glass plate  with a crystalline residue.

Endeavoring to manufacture a CDS is punishable by seven years to life and a fine of not less than $50,000, while the child-endangerment charge is punishable by up to four years in prison and a fine not to exceed $5,000.

Court records show a warrant was issued for Colunga’s arrest Wednesday.

Baldridge was given a $35,000 bond and ordered back to court Oct. 30 for an initial appearance.

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