Title 21

A house catches fire after local authorities bust what they believe to be a meth lab and now those responsible are paying the price. A house fire brought authorities to a home in Picher Oklahoma late last night. But upon entering the home, firefighters discovered a meth lab. Due to a new law, the penalties for this exact act are even tougher. 35-year old James Cook and 21-year-old Desire Dunn face several charges related to the meth bust. But now due to a new law they could also be charged with arson. If convicted, they could face up to 35 years in prison. The incident happened last night in the couple`s home located in the 700-block of Main in Picher. Authorities say the fire began when the meth cooking on the gas stove spilled to the floor. Deputy Woodrow Greenfeather says meth labs are becoming much more dangerous, but hopes the bigger penalty will help keep meth producers behind bars. The penalty is called "Title 21" and violators could face felony charges. Woodrow Greenfeather - Picher Police Dept. "Before there was no law saying that you can`t set fire to your house but with this you can charge them with arson." Greenfeather says now the punishment fits the crime and he hopes it will keep more violators behind bars. "Its a good thing hopefully they will think twice about doing it in neighborhoods where children are present." Title 21 just went into effect a few days ago in Oklahoma. If convicted of the arson penalty, Cook and Dunn could face up to 35 years in prison. The two are currently being held in the Ottawa County Jail on $32,000 bond each.