Newport Police Uncover Marijuana Grow House

A Newport man was arrested after police more than 20 marijuana plants in his home.

Antonio B. Carson Sr., 50, of 20 Chapel St., Newport, was arrested around 11:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 27, for a drug manufacturing charge.

According to reports, police found more than 25 marijuana plants growing in Carson’s basement.

Police were at Carson’s home to investigate the whereabouts of his daughter, who had been missing since the afternoon. She was later found at her cousin’s house.

When police asked to look in the basement to search for her, Carson said he did not have a basement. He also said the door leading to the basement was a closet. 

Once police went into the basement, they found a grow operation and seized the plants, fertilizer, and lights.  

Carson reportedly said he had a medical marijuana card allowing him to grow plants because he had glaucoma, but not a growing card. However, he never produced a card to police. 

During a search of his home, police found and seized approximately 170 grams of marijuana, valued at more than $1,000.

The above reports detail arrests made by the Newport Police Department. Descriptions of all events are based solely on police officer reports provided to Patch. 

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