By RYAN HUTCHINS
Contributing Writer
September 21, 2008 06:52 am
—
SARANAC -- Police seized some 69 marijuana plants and more than a pound of the drug here Friday.
Clinton County Sheriff's deputies arrested Tracy J. Lashway, 36, and charged him with unlawful growing of marijuana for allegedly maintaining the operation at his rented home.
"It came through an informant and we did a fly-by," Deputy Nicholas J. Leon said.
U.S Customs and Border Protection provided the flight over the site. The aerial view revealed suspicious activity, Leon said.
When deputies interviewed Lashway, he gave police permission to search the property.
In Lashway's home, deputies and two representatives from the Adirondack Drug Task Force allegedly found an "elaborate" growing operation, according to a news release. Leon said some 49 "good size" plants were found inside.
There were another 20 plants found outside, scattered over three separate plots, Leon said. "The plants were hidden in the woods."
Police also seized 17 ounces of processed marijuana, as well as equipment used in the germination and growing process.
Deputies are estimating that the seized marijuana is worth about $70,000.
"As with all law enforcement, the objective is to get this stuff off the street," Leon said.
Lashway was released on an appearance ticket, but additional charges may be levied against the man, Leon said.
Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.