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Veteran high school librarian arrested on drug charges after meth lab tip

Fox 8, June 18, 2014

SPRINGFIELD TWP., Ohio — A veteran high school librarian is facing meth-related charges in Springfield Township.

According to Springfield Township police, officers received an anonymous tip Friday regarding a possible meth lab at a home of Foxford Court in Lakemore.

Police said the homeowner, Nicole Gries, 39, gave them permission to search the residence, and they found chemicals and components used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.

Gries was arrested along with Kelly Boatright, 44, and William Villers, 53. All three face charges of illegal assembly of chemicals to manufacture drugs.

Mark Williamson, communication coordinator at Akron Public Schools, confirmed that Gries is a librarian at East High School in Akron. He said she’s worked for the district for 13 years.

The arrest happened after school let out for the summer, said Williamson. It’s not clear how the school will proceed, he said.

“APS is evaluating the next step that needs to be taken in this matter,” Williamson said in a statement. “Her not being in an educational environment and around students means our options are not terribly time dependent.”