Allen County, IN-A five month long joint investigation between the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) came to a successful end over the weekend with the seizure of hundreds of marijuana plants, some as tall as 10 feet in height, and the arrest of a Fort Wayne man.

In April of this year, the Allen County Drug Task Force received a tip regarding a large outdoor marijuana growing operation in the Lake Everett area.  The Task Force was able to locate the outdoor operation and with the assistance of the Indiana State Police Marijuana Eradication Team and the DEA, several more growing operations were located in the vicinity of Lake Everett.

On Saturday, September 8th, the Allen County SWAT Team raided a residence in the 13200 block of Lake Everett Drive.  Jason E. Bridges, 32 of Fort Wayne was arrested on felony marijuana possession and dealing charges.  In addition to the outdoor growing operation, police recovered approximately four pounds of marijuana from inside the residence.  Bridges is being held without bond in the Allen County Jail.  This investigation is ongoing and is expected to yield several more arrests.

The Indiana State Police encourages the public to call with information about marijuana growing activity in their communities.  Call toll free at (888) 873-1694.  Anonymous tips are accepted.