FIELDSBORO MAN INDICTED FOR GROWING MARIJUANA IN BASEMENT
Friday, March 30, 2012
More than $150,000 worth of plants discovered in June 2011 bust
MOUNT HOLLY, N.J. - Burlington County Prosecutor Robert D. Bernardi announced today that a 34- year-old Fieldsboro man has been indicted by a Burlington County Grand Jury for growing marijuana in the basement of his home.
David J. Stanton, of 230 Delaware Avenue, Fieldsboro, N.J., was indicted on one count of Maintaining or Operating a Controlled Dangerous Substance Production Facility (First Degree), Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance With Intent To Distribute (Second Degree), and Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (Fourth Degree).
Stanton was arrested on June 28, 2011 after the New Jersey State Police Marijuana Eradication Squad, with assistance from the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office Gang, Gun and Narcotics Task Force, searched his home and discovered a marijuana growing operation hidden behind a false wall in the basement. The arrest was preceded by an investigation conducted by the State Police.
The investigation revealed that Stanton was cultivating 80 marijuana plants in two separate growing areas using special lights designed for use in indoor gardening facilities. The street value of the marijuana seized from his home was $156,000.
The indictments were returned March 27, 2012. An arraignment will be scheduled soon in Superior Court in Burlington County. Stanton was released on his own recognizance following his arrest.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless or until proven guilty.