Bancroft OPP began an investigation into a Hastings Highlands grow-op in June 2001 and after a nearly two-decade-long chase, have now charged the accused man behind it.
A 64-year-old from the United States has been charged in relation to the grow-up.
When the investigation began in 2001, the Bancroft OPP detachment executed a series of search warrant a home on Mooney Road in Hastings Highlands. They ended up seizing over 200 cannabis plants and located equipment associated with what the OPP report was an “extensive indoor growing operation.” The OPP report that officers also found suspected methamphetamine, a loaded firearm as nearly two dozen Pitbulls at the residence.
An arrest warrant was issued for the man in 2001, and police later found out he was also wanted in the State of Texas. At that point, the OPP and the Canada Border Services Agency teamed up to track the man down.
They found him on June 11th, around 6:30 AM in West Nipissing. Officers from the Bancroft and West Nipissing OPP detachments were joined by the OPP’s Emergency Response Team, Tactics and Rescue Unit, Canine Unit and Canadian Border Services agents to arrest the man.
He’s been charged with careless use of a firearm, weapon, device or ammunition, production of a schedule two substance, and possession for the purpose of a schedule two substance over three kilograms.
He was remained in custody since his arrest and will have his bail hearing by video before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville on June 18th.