POLICE RAID MAJOR MARIJUANA FACTORY
by John Bailey and Peter Katz UPDATED FEBRUARY 14, 2010.
White Plains detectives executed a warrant Saturday at about 2:35 pm and entered a hydroponic marijuana factory located in apartment 11C at 235 South Lexington Avenue. Two suspects, Adam L. Dickerson and Dominique DePietro were taken into custody according to Public Safety Commissioner David Chong and will be charged with felonies.
Reporters John Bailey and Peter Katz were at the scene and observed a large quantity of mature marijuana plants growing in hydroponic (irrigation) containers which were illuminated by bright lights. Also in the apartment were a large quantity of processed marijuana in mason jars, chemicals for processing, and cartons for packaging large quantities, possibly for shipment. Also observed were a number of plastic pouches containing marijuana.
Commissioner Chong said the warrant to enter the apartment was obtained as part of an on-going investigation. He said that due to the danger posed by the chemicals, electrical extensions, and other items, his detectives would be calling on the White Plains Fire Department, the DEA, and possibly others to aid in emptying the apartment. He said that the makeshift electrical wiring and use of chemicals in the apartment posed a hazard to the building's residents. He said that the apartment apparently was used just for growing the marijuana and the suspects did not live there.
Chong said that the suspects are being held in White Plains and would be arraigned in the next day or two on what he expected would be felony charges. Chong estimated the street value of the marijuana on hand in the apartment at about $30,000.
The Commissioner said this kind of operation will not be tolerated in White Plains. He charactertized it as a set of conditions that could result in an explosion that would jeopardize the lives of residents of the building.
WPCNR will have further details as they are received.
