By Mark LaFlamme,Staff Writer

LEWISTON – A Sabattus Street couple appeared in court for the first time Friday on charges that they operated a methamphetamine lab out of their apartment. The pair was described in court as a danger to the community as the matter of bail was discussed.

Louis Rubino, 25, was ordered held on $50,000 bail. Bail for his girlfriend, 23-year-old Donna Pagnani, was set at $10,000.

The two were returned to the Androscoggin County Jail in Auburn where they remained Friday night. Each was forbidden to possess specific items used for the manufacture of meth should they be released.

They were also ordered to have no contact with each other or their 3-year-old daughter, who was placed in state custody Wednesday while police probed the meth lab.

Rubino and Pagnani were each charged with trafficking in meth. They also were charged with endangering the welfare of the child.

In court Friday, Rubino was briefly restrained by a jail officer after he reportedly became unruly. One witness said Rubino argued with the court judge while the matter of bail was being addressed.

Rubino has a long criminal history in the Lewiston-Auburn area, including convictions for assault, indecent conduct and thefts, according to court records. He has been arrested numerous times in both Lewiston and Auburn.

Pagnani has a prior criminal history including convictions for theft, disorderly conduct, possessing marijuana and possessing drug paraphernalia.

The case first came to the attention of police when a local person reported getting sick on drugs provided by Rubino.

The case against the pair was investigated by local police, state drug agents and members of a federal task force. Lewiston police have said more arrests are possible as the probe continues.

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