Pubdate: Mon, 15 Aug 2005
Source: Star-Banner, The (FL)
Copyright: 2005 The Star-Banner
Contact:  http://www.starbanner.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1533
Author: Millard K. Ives
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/raids.htm (Drug Raids)

HOME INVASION REPORT LEADS TO DRUG BUST

GROVELAND - Two people who reported a home invasion were busted themselves 
during an investigation by law enforcement.

Lake County investigators found no intruders inside home on State Road 33 
home in Groveland, but they reportedly did discover a drug lab and 68 
marijuana plants.

Ariel M. Moran, 28, and Leidys M. Diaz, 22, were charged with cultivation 
of marijuana and held in the Lake County Jail in lieu of $2,000 bail each.

According to an arrest affidavit, investigators found the plants inside 
pots and buckets that were connected to an automated irrigation system. 
Each room was equipped with multiple grow lights and separate 
air-conditioning systems.

Sgt. Christie Mysinger, a spokeswoman with the Sheriff's Office, said an 
officer was driving past the home Saturday when he saw men in the yard with 
guns confronting each other. Mysinger said Moran and Diaz told the officer 
someone had tried to break into their home.

Officers entered the home to look for the intruders and, according to an 
arrest affidavit, deputies smelled a "strong odor" of marijuana. When 
officers asked what was in the room, the residents admitted it was 
marijuana, reports state.

After being given written and verbal consent to search the home, Mysinger 
said, officials found at least 68 large plants with an estimated street 
value of at least $80,000.

Mysinger said it is not clear why the pair gave their consent for the 
search when there was marijuana in the home.

At least one man was arrested in the connection with the home invasion.

No further information on the incident was available Sunday.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom