Plants were found growing in buckets, neatly lined up in the backyard and along the deck, said sheriff’s Capt. Dave Rapp.
“It actually reminded you of a cornfield or actually where they grow Christmas trees,” he said. “The plants were found to be well-cared for.”
It took about four hours for agencies to catalog and remove the plants. Rapp said the homeowner was present at the time, but no charges have been filed because the investigation is ongoing.
In addition to the mature potted plants, several dried plants were found inside along with items suggesting the home may be a marijuana distribution site, Rapp said. The drugs seized totaled about 75 pounds.
“It’s been a long time since we’ve had a grow of this nature,” he said.
It’s the second drug bust for the sheriff’s office this month. Sheriff Matthew Melvin has been aggressively following up on leads to make arrests in recent months, Rapp said.
“We’re going to continue our proactive response to these grows and any information involving narcotics and keeping our residents safe,” he said.
Anyone with information about suspected drug operations in Champaign County can call (937) 653-3409.
About the Author