Law enforcement conducts marijuana eradication operation

FINDLAY — The Hancock County Sheriff's Office and the Hancock-METRICH Drug Task Force in coordination with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Butler County Sheriff's Office Aviation Division conducted a Marijuana Eradication Operation in Hancock County. A Hancock County Sheriff's Office release states that officers located 42 marijuana plots containing 289 plants along with one additional location where law enforcement officials removed six marijuana plants that were in excess of the permitted law to cultivate. A majority of the locations had plants that were easily accessible to children, with toys present near marijuana plants and locations not enclosed to prevent access by anyone under 21 years of age, the release reads. Detective Sergeant Fredrick Smith provided the main points discussed with individuals who were found not in compliance with Ohio Revised Code Section 3780.29: • Individuals 21 years or older can cultivate, grow and possess up to six plants in their primary residence • 12 plants can be cultivated or grown at a single residence where two or more individuals who are at least 21 years old reside at any one time • Cultivation and growing cannabis can only occur within a secured closet, greenhouse, room, or any other enclosed area within a residence that prevents access by individuals under 21 years of age and which is not visible by unaided vision from a public space. The six confiscated marijuana plants will be destroyed and no charges are being filed against any individuals that spoke with law enforcement about not complying with the rules of O.R.C. Section 3780.29, the release reads.