Wellton, AZ - Over the weekend two people were arrested after Wellton Police found drugs packaged for sale along with some unknown chemicals in their home right next to a an elementary school.
45 year old Gary Durwin and 51 year old Elizabeth Stewart were both arrested and they have several complaints filed against them.
Police searched their home on the 29000 Block of San Jose Avenue over the weekend. Their home is just 30ft away from Wellton Elementary.
During the search police say they found marijuana, methamphetamine, needles, measuring scales and other unknown chemicals. Police deemed the home dangerous and called in other agencies.
"We had to call Wellton Fire Department to respond with the disposition of the unknown chemicals, we also found human feces animal feces and a couple dead animals which made the conditions of the home unworkable, we had to call the fire department to help clean up the area so it would be safe to breathe," says Sgt. David Rodriguez.
News 13 was near the property today and we witnessed the foul orders coming from the home along with a distressed kitten and dead animals.
Due to proclaimed medical conditions both Hand and Stewart were released from custody and transported to the Yuma Regional Medical Center for further evaluation.
"A Wellton Police officer transported them to the hospital. He was Waiting for them to be released but found out they were going to be in there for a long time. The Hospital released the gentleman 5 minutes after the officer left.
Police say Hand was supposed to turn himself in and they are asking for anyone with information on his whereabouts to please contact them.
They say Stuart is still under the care of YRMC. Police expect her to turn herself in when she is released.
As for the home, neighbors say they are relieved to hear something is being done.
"I filled a complaint about 2 months ago and the current chief assured me they were already working on the case and these things take time to develop. They got on top of it, it's important that these things get taken care of for our safety. I urge people to let police know what's going on in their neighborhood and to take a stand," says Matt Brooks a neighbor and retired Wellton Police Chief.
A follow up investigation will be conducted to determine if the property should be condemned. Police say they will seek additional charges because the property was so close to a school and Animal Control has been notified.
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