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Ocean Springs neighbors outraged over meth bust at daycare center

By Patrice Clark- bio | email

OCEAN SPRINGS, MS (WLOX) - Four people face a variety of charges after drugs and pornography were discovered at an Ocean Springs home, which also serves as a daycare.

Narcotics Task Force agents descended on Stennis Avenue Tuesday night, where they said they found two inactive 'shake and bake' meth labs, as well as chemicals, needles and other gear to make and use meth. 

Charged with making meth is 45-year-old Mark Timothy Sumrall. His parents, Brenda and Alfred Sumrall, were also arrested, along with daycare worker Carolyn Agodkin. The three are charged with nine counts of felony child endangerment.

"I didn't suspect anything," neighbor Jerome McGee said. "I know the family very well. That is why it is still very surprising for them to be in that type of situation."

McGee lives across the street from the Sumralls on Stennis Avenue.  He said he was shocked to learn authorities said they found two meth labs inside the home. 

"It's sad, most definitely. Sad because of the kids. That is the main thing, the kids.  You have to think of them, their future, and how they develop after something like this."

The arrests also surprised and sadden neighbor David Cook.

"To have kids where they are doing meth, and people trust daycare people," Cook said. "I would be very upset as a parent if my child was there."

Narcotics Task Force Commander Curtis Spiers said agents got a tip that meth cooking and distribution were happening at the home.  Spiers said Mark Sumrall's name surfaced in the investigation.  He said Sumrall had a previous arrest for cocaine possession in Jackson County and was under house arrest.

"Based on the information received, agents applied for and received a search warrant and arrests warrants Tuesday afternoon," Spiers said.  "Due to the nature of a daycare with children present, we waited for Mr. Sumrall to leave the residence. We conducted a traffic stop and took him into custody."

After Mark Sumrall was in custody, agents made disturbing discoveries. They say they found pornography on computers, meth chemicals, and drug paraphernalia inside the home and outside where nine daycare children played.  

"We have contacted parents to let them know to just have their children checked. We are not saying they have been exposed or haven't been exposed, but in a situation where a meth lab is at and children are involved, it is a dangerous situation."