CONCORD – Two Manchester residents have been charged for conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine and possessing the necessary chemicals and equipment to do so within their home, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

Charles Winchell and Catherine Quinn, both 42 years old, were charged with conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine and possession of equipment, chemicals, products, and materials to manufacture methamphetamine.   

According to the charging documents, Quinn and Winchell purchased pseudoephedrine, an over-the-counter medication and the primary ingredient used for the manufacturing of methamphetamine, dozens of times over the past few months.  Most recently, Winchell purchased pseudoephedrine Sunday.  Law enforcement executed a search warrant at their residence Monday morning and found pseudoephedrine and other ingredients used to manufacture methamphetamine, such as lighter fluid, drain cleaner, and batteries, which contain lithium strips used to create a chemical reaction. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Manchester Police Department are investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather A. Cherniske is prosecuting the case.