That's a Lot of Pots of Pot: Police Seize 400 Marijuana Plants in Worcester

WORCESTER, MA—Two green thumbs from Worcester are facing several charges after Worcester Police's Vice Squad seized 400 marijuana plant and two pounds of marijuana at their home.

On Thursday, June 16, police searched 2 Westbrook Circle, the named targets 31-year-old Richard Marko and 32-year-old Van Truong.

The investigation began when complaints came in from a neighborhood watch meeting, and also through information received on the WPD tip line. The investigation was conducted with the assistance of the Massachusetts State Police Air Wing and Massachusetts Narcotics Detectives.

Around 9 a.m., police stopped Marko while he drove his Mercedes in the area of Fenwick Street and Richmond Avenue. Officers then headed to Westbrook Circle, knocked on the door, and Truong answered but refused to let them in, pushing the door against police. Two were struck by the door, but were able to apprehend Truong.

During a search, officers found a sophisticated indoor marijuana growing operating in the basement. They removed approximately 400 marijuana plants in various stages of growth. The house also boasted lights, fertilizer, fans, electrical transformers, numerous other instruments for a marijuana growing operation, packaging material and digital scales. Officers also removed two pounds of marijuana.

Van Truong was charged with two counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon, Resisting Arrest, Manufacturing Class D Substance, Possession of Class D Substance with Intent to Distribute, Conspiracy to Violate Controlled Substance Laws and Interfering with a Police Officer.

Richard Marko was charged with Manufacturing Class D Substance, Possession of Class D Substance with Intent to Distribute and Conspiracy to Violate Controlled Substance Laws.

Photo via Worcester Police Department