Wisconsin Parents Arrested After Missing Child Welfare Check Leads to Crack Cocaine Lab Discovery in Winneconne
WINNECONNE, WISCONSIN — What began as a welfare check for a mother who failed to pick up her child turned into a major drug bust this week, as police uncovered a makeshift crack cocaine lab inside a Winneconne rental unit.
According to the Winneconne Police Department, officers were called to an address in the village on November 10 after a 34-year-old woman reportedly failed to show up for scheduled parental duties. Concerned family members told police they hadn’t heard from her “in some time” and feared for her safety due to her known history with drug use.
When officers arrived, they found the woman inside the rental unit — and quickly realized this was more than a welfare check.
Cocaine, Propane Burners, and Paraphernalia Found in Plain View
Officers immediately noticed numerous drug-related items scattered throughout the residence, including what appeared to be a crack cocaine cooking setup.
Police also discovered a 49-year-old man from Wausau passed out on a bed nearby. Both individuals were detained after consenting to a search of the property.
Authorities say they found:
- Cocaine and cocaine base materials
- A propane burner used for heating compounds
- Mixing and cutting agents
- Drug packaging materials
- Tools and scales
- A “copious” amount of drug paraphernalia
Investigators described the scene as a “makeshift crack cocaine base cooking area,” adding that it posed serious health and fire hazards inside the building.
Multiple Felony Charges Filed
Both suspects now face several felony drug and child neglect charges, including:
- Manufacturing of cocaine (base)
- Maintaining a drug dwelling
- Possession of cocaine (2nd or subsequent offense)
- Possession of THC (2nd or subsequent offense)
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Child neglect – harm did not occur
Authorities confirmed that no children were present at the time of arrest, but the child in question is now in protective custody.
Anonymous Tip Credited for Rescue and Arrests
Police credited an anonymous tipster for helping to bring the case to light, saying their report likely prevented further harm.
“This call not only helped us remove dangerous drugs from the street but also allowed us to connect individuals to the resources they desperately need,” the Winneconne Police Department said in a statement.
The department also reminded residents to remain vigilant and report suspected drug activity or welfare concerns.
Do you believe Wisconsin communities are doing enough to protect children from drug-related neglect?
Join the conversation and share your thoughts at ChicagoMusicGuide.com.