A Pequea man is headed to trial on allegations that he ran a marijuana-grow operation out of his home.
During a search last month, Lancaster County Drug Task Force detectives found 119 live marijuana plants and more than 1½ pounds of harvested marijuana at the Lake Aldred Terrace home, by the Susquehanna River.
Daniel Earle Austin, 66, was recently ordered to stand trial on felony counts of drug-manufacturing/dealing.
He posted $250,000 bail after Lancaster County detectives filed charges after the search.
At the home, detectives also found jars of marijuana seeds, lights, soil and drying racks associated with the grow operation. They also found $18,400 in cash.
The value of Austin’s operation is unknown. It can’t be determined how much marijuana would’ve been harvested from the 119 plants. High-grade marijuana can sell for $300-$400 per ounce.
Assistant District Attorney Trista Boyd is prosecuting the case.
District Judge Stuart Mylin recently ordered Austin stand trial following a recent waiver of a preliminary hearing. The trial would likely be held next year, unless a plea is lodged.
By waiving the preliminary hearing, Austin doesn’t admit guilt, but concedes there was evidence to support charges.
MEDIA CONTACT: Brett A. Hambright, 717-295-2041; bhambright@co.lancaster.pa.us; Twitter: @BrettHambright