An image showing the more than 500 plants confiscated by authorities following a raid in Busti on April 30, 2013. (Photo provided by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office)
Editor’s Note: Initially, this story had erroneously reported that charges had already be leveled against the three individuals in the case. According to the report WRFA received from the Sheriff’s Office, the charges will be filed after all the evidence has been processed. As of this a.m., no charges had been placed against anyone involved in the case. [Updated at 2:50 p.m.]
BUSTI – Three Busti residents will be facing criminal charges for their alleged involvement into a major marijuana growing operation.
The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team, along with the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, conducted a raid Tuesday morning at two residences on Busti-Sugar Grove Rd. and seized more than 500 marijuana plants growing on the property. Officials say the total street value of the drugs was more than $500,000.
According to the sheriff’s office report, the three people arrested involved in the investigation were 31 year-old John Boardman and 29 year old Jennifer Grundstrom – both of 529 Busti-Sugar Grove Road – and 26 year old Brad Strickland of 515 Busti-Sugar Grove Road.
Officials say the raid took place following an investigation and after receiving a warrant by county judge John Ward. Police say a loaded shotgun was also found inside the home that Strickland was in.
Sheriff Deputies say Boardman and Strickland were each will be charged with Unlawfully Growing Marihuana and Criminal Possession of Marihuana in the 2nd Degree. In addition, Boardman and Grundstrom were each will be charged with fifth-degree criminal possession of marijuana and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance charges.
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