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Major Marijuana Growing Operation Busted In Washington County

BENTLEYVILLE (KDKA)- Police in Washington County have made a big marijuana growing operation bust.

This morning, police took 38-year-old Richard Ritenour into custody in Bentleyville.

Police were called to assist Children and Youth Services on a welfare check on Main Street.

"It was a welfare check. They needed to make contact with the children that were within the residence," Bentleyville Police Chief Richard Young said.

When police saw the padlocked basement door and smelled marijuana, they obtained a search warrant.

"We entered the residence," said Chief Richard Young. "At that time, we noticed a strong scent of marijuana coming from the basement."

Police returned last night to find a substantial grow operation in three rooms in the basement.

DRUG BUST MUG
Richard Ritenour. (Photo Courtesy: Washington County Jail)

"There were three different rooms, multiple timers, irrigation system," said Chief Young. "Very sophisticated, not only a heating system, but also air conditioners and a ventilation system that was blowing everything out of the residence."

They confiscated more than 70 marijuana plants, grow lights, ventilation equipment, irrigation equipment and a humidifier all used in the growing operation. Several weapons, including a loaded shotgun were also seized.

"Amazed to see this much in a small house," said the chief. "Especially, when you're dealing with a single family dwelling that had multiple children within it."

Ritenour was taken to the Washington County Jail on a number of drug charges.

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