Man Arrested for Indoor Marijuana Grow

On Thursday, March 24, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Detectives with the assistance of the State Police Narcotics Task Force conducted a search and seizure warrant at 58B Saginaw Trail. Police received a tip about the resident
growing marijuana in his basement. Police discovered an elaborate hydroponic
marijuana grow in a newly constructed room in the basement of the home. The room was set up with automatic watering and lighting systems. Police removed 84 marijuana plants at various stages of growth. There were plants drying and ready for packaging. Packaging material and a scale were also located, along with a small amount of narcotic pills. Police seized all the grow materials and supplies.

Police arrested 31-year-old Anthony Martino for the grow after a short car chase. Martino arrived home while police were searching the residence. Martino fled in his car at a high rate of speed. After a short pursuit Martino stopped his car and was arrested. Martino had a small quantity of marijuana in his car as well. Martino resided in the house with his wife and two small children. Due to the children, Martino was arrested on risk of injury to a minor.

Martino was arrested on the following charges:

• Possession of marijuana more than four ounces
• Possession of marijuana less than four ounces [21a-279(c)]
• Possession of marijuana with intent to sell
• Risk of injury of a minor (two counts)
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Pills not in original container
• Cultivation of marijuana
• Operating a drug factory

Martino was unable to post a $200,000 bond and will be arraigned in Derby
Superior Court today.

Police ask any persons with illegal drug sales information to contact the Shelton Police at 203-924-0212. All calls will be kept confidential.