Cops Bust Marijuana Growing Operation in Western Ocean County

Marijuana plants. (File Photo/Flickr)

Police executed a search warrant on a property off Route 539 in Whiting Tuesday morning, discovering a marijuana growing operation and arresting two residents of the property.

The 10 a.m. raid was conducted after an investigation by the Manchester police department’s Narcotics Enforcement Team, Capt. Todd Malland said.

During the search of the home and property, evidence of a marijuana grow operation was uncovered along with two long guns and a high capacity rifle magazine, Malland said. Approximately 2.5 pounds of marijuana were seized in addition to paraphernalia associated with the growing, harvesting, packaging and distribution of marijuana.

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Joseph W. Schweitzer, 23, and Karen M. Schweitzer, 67, both residents of the property, were arrested.

Joseph Schweitzer was charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana over 50 grams, possession of a high capacity magazine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bail was set for Joseph Schweitzer at $25,000 with a 10 percent option. He was unable to post bail and was subsequently transported to Ocean County Jail.

Karen Schweitzer charged with possession of drug paraphernalia. She was later released on a complaint summons.