Akron and Summit County police teach 'Meth 101' to residents

AKRON, Ohio - Would you know how to spot a meth lab in your neighborhood? More than 100 Akron area residents turned out for a public forum Wednesday night to find out what to look for.

"It is an epidemic," Akron police officer Chris Crockett said. More than 125 meth labs have been busted this year alone in Akron, including one on Wednesday that was dumped into a street.

Crockett said he believes good law enforcement is the reason police are finding so many labs. He hopes more people will get on board and call in more tips.

In case you're wondering how to spot a meth lab in your neighborhood, one sign is an unusual strong odor similar to nail polish remover or cat urine. Also, a residence with windows blacked out could be a red flag. Speaking of cats, if your neighbor doesn't own one but you see bags and bags of cat litter around, you might want to call police.

Crockett said it's easier to cook meth now than in the past. It takes less time and fewer items that can fit into a small backpack.

"People are actually cooking and walking through stores," he said. "They've actually been arrested cooking meth walking through stores while getting their supplies and just doing it as they're shopping."