Recently marijuana was found in Switzerland County and in Aurora. These discoveries have police investigating and neighbors on the lookout.

In Switzerland County, Indiana Conservation officers located a large clandestine patch of marijuana. According to Indiana Conservation officer David Jackson, the 864 cultivated marijuana plants were located on private property along Green Valley Road in rural Switzerland County. The marijuana was gathered and destroyed near the cultivation site. The crime of cultivating marijuana is a Class “A” Misdemeanor.

In Aurora, Indiana State Excise Police officers seized 203 containers of suspected synthetic marijuana, better known as K2 and spice, at Road Dog convenience store located at 606 Green Blvd. Officers were responding to four complaints, one involving a juvenile, from people who reportedly experienced adverse reactions after ingesting synthetic marijuana products allegedly purchased at Road Dog. Officers seized a variety of products including items by the name of Karma and Black Mamba. These products became illegal July 1 when a new Indiana law took effect. Police also cited Road Dog administratively for operating on an expired tobacco sales certificate.

Dearborn County prosecutor Aaron Negangard assisted excise police in their investigation, which may result in criminal charges.

Both cases are still being investigated. Property owners are encouraged to observe and report any unexplained foot trails, cultivation tools or watering containers they may find. Anyone finding marijuana growing on their property or has knowledge of cultivated marijuana can call 1-800-847-4367 (1-800-TIP-IDNR) or the local police department.