Jasper County, IN grow operation nets $54K

Jasper County, Indiana sheriff’s police report a $54,000 cash seizure following a traffic stop Tuesday.

It was an erratic driver that sparked a pullover of a vehicle. That led to the discovery of a large marijuana-growing operation that included 28 pounds of pot, 26 plants and the $54,000.

The Jasper County Sheriff’s deputy conducted a traffic stop on County Road 1100 North south of Wheatfield, Ind.

A car driven by 58-year-old Edward Born of Wheatfield was stopped for erratic driving.

The deputy noticed a smell of burnt marijuana as he got closer to the car. After further investigation the deputy found a large plastic baggie containing pot.

Born was then arrested on a possession charge. Additional information obtained by the deputy pointed toward Born having a larger amount of marijuana, which led to a search warrant being issued on Born’s home.

Indiana State Police (ISP) narcotics officers, Newton County Drug Task Force and the Wheatfield Marshal searched Born’s home on County Road 1125 North.

Inside investigators said they found 28 pounds of processed and bagged marijuana, an indoor grow operation that comprised 26 plants and $54,000 in U.S. currency.

Edward Born’s wife, 52-year-old Cheri, was also taken into custody for possession with intent to deal.

Authorities also seized numerous motorcycles and other motor vehicles.

The Borns are being held at the Jasper County Detention Center on charges of dealing marijuana, pending a bond hearing. The investigation is ongoing.

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