In a surprising turn of events, law enforcement incinerated nearly 200 pounds of materials, not just 2 pounds of methamphetamine, in an animal crematorium in Billings on Sept. 10, as verified by burn records reviewed by Montana Free Press. The revelation raises significant questions about the use of the city’s animal crematorium to dispose of illegal drugs, potentially exposing Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter employees to health risks. The incident has sparked social media discussions and government investigations, highlighting concerns about the disposal practices of federal and local law enforcement. The shelter, housing about 75 cats and dogs, was affected as employees reported symptoms after exposure to chemical-smelling smoke.
Triniti Halverson, the shelter’s executive director, stated that there was no warning about the burn that day. Two employees continue to experience health issues weeks after the incident. “What they did here baffles me,” expressed Stacy Zinn, a former DEA special agent. “Obviously it wasn’t protocol.” Halverson first noticed a bleach-like smell, initially thinking a cleaning product was being used near animals. Upon checking, she discovered dark smoke from the incineration area, where city and police department personnel were present.
The shelter’s proximity to the incineration area put animals and staff at risk. Employees quickly evacuated kittens with ringworm, discovering gray smoke filling the room. Protective equipment, including pandemic-era face masks, was used to mitigate smoke exposure. By 12:30 p.m., Halverson contacted local media and board members. Previous smoke-related issues from the incinerator had been reported, but the extent of dangerous narcotics being burned was unknown to staff at the time.
Post-evacuation, Halverson sent employees to the hospital for assessment. She recounted, “It’s so mind-twisting to be standing in front of someone in a police uniform, needing emergency help, and not get it.” City officials later informed hospital staff that the burn included 2 pounds of methamphetamine, with no other substances disclosed. Halverson expressed concern about the delay in evacuating animals, partly due to necessary protective gear for ringworm. “I guess having known [what they were burning], I probably would have taken ringworm over meth,” she said.
Montana residents are questioning the disposal processes for methamphetamine and other drugs by law enforcement. Data shows meth is the most seized drug by authorities. Federal guidelines recommend controlled and thorough disposal, typically in a commercial waste combustor. The nearest facility is in Spokane, Washington, a lengthy drive from Billings. Billings’ incinerator, operating under a state permit, is only authorized to burn animal carcasses unless approved for alternative use by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
The local health department had approved an FBI request to use the incinerator for “illegal drugs,” but details were vague. The city’s incineration log indicates 188 pounds of materials were burned, starting around 11 a.m. and continuing after Halverson’s protest. Zinn emphasized that no one should be exposed to drug incineration fumes. Billings City Administrator Chris Kukulski acknowledged the complexity of the situation, lacking precise records on what was burned. DEQ is investigating potential permit and Clean Air Act violations.
If violations are confirmed, the city will be notified and allowed to respond. Restoration efforts are ongoing, with the animal shelter remaining closed. The incident continues to unfold, as authorities and the community work through the ramifications of this significant procedural error.
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