MCDOWELL, NC: McDowell County deputies say federal, state and local authorities seized 425 marijuana plants in McDowell County.
The seizure was part of an eradication effort.
Agents with the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) coordinated large-scale efforts to identify and dismantle outdoor marijuana growing operations in eight western counties, according to a statement from the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office.
McDowell County reportedly topped the list for the number of plants seized.
The multi-agency operation included personnel from the SBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), U.S. Forestry Service, N.C. Wildlife Resources and multiple sheriffs’ offices and police departments.
The operation was conducted from July 19 to July 24 and focused on McDowell, Cherokee, Swain, Graham, Madison, Yancey, Caldwell and Mitchell counties.
A total of 878 marijuana plants were seized, which prompted 13 investigations to identify the individuals involved.
McDowell led the number of pot plant seizures, with 425, according to SBI officials.
Deputies say an investigation continues into those responsible for the marijuana crops.
