The Tryon Police Department uncovered a small methamphetamine lab on June 10 and arrested two individuals for manufacturing the substance.

Angela White Ross, 45, and Brian Paul Blackwell, 39, of 90 Beaver St., Tryon were arrested and each charged with manufacturing methamphetamine, maintaining a dwelling/place/vehicle for a controlled substance, conspiracy and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to Tryon Police Chief Jeff Arrowood.

Arrowood said a tip led to an investigation and his department along with the Columbus Police Department executed a search warrant on the home during the evening of Thursday, June 10. The N.C. State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) was also called to investigate.

In total, officers discovered four plastic bottles used to make meth and other items such as butane, chemicals such as drain cleaner and pseudoephedrine, according to Arrowood.

Meth labs continue to be discovered in Polk County with recent ones being classified as small labs for personal use. Local sheriff officials and Arrowood said small labs are becoming more common due to it being easier to make meth than purchase it.

In 2012, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office discovered 10 total meth labs.

Ross and Blackwell each received $50,000 bonds and were both still being held in custody as of last Friday, Jan. 11.

An outstanding bond for Ross was also discovered from 2004 for a worthless check, Arrowood said, so Ross was given an additional $300 bond.

Ross and Blackwell each had first appearances in court last Friday, Jan.11.