Police: Marijuana Smell Leads To Grow House Bust
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Police have busted an alleged marijuana grow house in Miami.
More than 75 plants were confiscated from a home on Northwest 53rd Avenue and 4th Street, according to investigators.
Police said they made the bust after officers driving by smelled marijuana coming from the home.
"Routine patrol we smelled strong odor of raw marijuana," said Officer R. Delgado.
The street corner also happens to be a school bus stop.
"There's kids all over this place," said Haydis Perez, a student at South Miami High School. "It's crazy I come here every morning and I smell it but I never thought these people were actually growing."
When cops knocked on the door, police said the homeowner, identified as 67-year old Rolando Fernandez, gave written consent to search the property.
Marijuana was found in three rooms, some plants growing in pots, some dried hanging on a clothesline. Police said they found some in the freezer.
Police said they also found cocaine in the house.
Because of dangerous electrical wiring illegally set up in the house, Florida Power and Light was called out to fix the issue.
"I couldn't believe it. I mean I've been living here all my life. I know the old man that lives here--he's a nice guy. I never thought this would happen," said Juan Gimenez, a neighbor.
Rolando was arrested and taken into custody. He is facing felony charges for possession and manufacturing of marijuana.
Police said he was being cooperative. They also said he has a history of drug-related charges.
Police estimate the value of the marijuana found is worth $50,000.
