In Somerset County, Maine, authorities conducted their third search in two weeks targeting suspected illegal marijuana cultivation sites, resulting in the seizure of over 4,760 marijuana plants and the arrest of three individuals from New York.
During the search of a Skowhegan residence on Friday morning, officers also confiscated over $7,000 in suspected drug proceeds, a Toyota Tacoma truck, and various items associated with illicit drug activity, as per a news release from the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office.
The three suspects, aged between 56 and 61 and hailing from Brooklyn, were charged with trafficking in scheduled drugs and marijuana cultivation. They were taken into custody initially and have since posted bail, according to Sheriff Dale Lancaster.
This operation is part of an ongoing investigation into illegal marijuana cultivation in Somerset County, which had previously led to the seizure of over 1,900 live plants and 60 pounds of marijuana in two separate searches. No arrests were made during those searches.
The sheriff’s office noted that they had executed at least six search warrants recently and apprehended four individuals suspected of running illegal marijuana cultivation sites.
Although recreational cannabis is legal for adults aged 21 and above in Maine, with the ability to purchase it from licensed stores and possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis products, the operation targeted illegal cultivation activities.
Friday’s search warrant was executed with assistance from the Waterville Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The suspects are slated to make their initial court appearance on June 5, as stated in the release.
