A Mantachie man has been charged for allegedly having 13 meth labs in his home.

According to Itawamba County Sheriff Chris Dickinson, Scotty Adams, 30, of 60 Fennel Road, Mantachie, was arrested early Tuesday morning and has been charged with the manufacture of crystal methamphetamine. His charges have been enhanced due to close proximity to a church and possession of a gun.

The sheriff reported 13 “shake and bake” meth labs were found scattered throughout Adams’ home. These labs were contained in mason jars, each worth approximately $700 to $800 in street value.

Deputies issued an initial search on Adams’ home searching for an illegal .38 revolver. Upon searching the home, they reportedly found one of the meth labs, prompting the officers to obtain a warrant to search the rest of the home and adjoining shop, where the rest of the “shake and bake” labs were found.

According to Dickinson, Adams has been under investigation for more than two years.

“We knew he was a drug dealer. We’ve been interested in him for a long time, and now it’s finally all come together,” he said. “I’m extremely proud of our deputies and the people of [Adams’] neighborhood for having patience and never giving up on us. Sometimes, you just have to be patient and persistent and wait until an opportunity presents itself.”

Dickinson said law enforcement is still collecting evidence in connection with the case.

Adams is currently being held in the Itawamba County Jail, awaiting his initial appearance before a justice court judge when his bond will be set.

Adam Armour can be reached at 862-3141, by e-mailing adam.armour@itawamba360.com or by visiting his blog at itawamba360.com.