HUGE pot bust in Brandon nets $600K in marijuana | Crime

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HUGE pot bust in Brandon nets $600K in marijuana

Submitted by Gillian Finklea, Web Producer, 10 News In Your Neighborhood

Friday, May 31st, 2013, 11:58am

Topics: Crime

Brandon, Florida -- Deputies have arrested a couple with a garage specifically used for cultivating marijuana.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office says they were tipped over to possible drug activity at the home in the 800 block of Regent Circle by a neighbor on May 29.

When deputies arrived at the home they were met by homeowner, Rodolfo Leantaud, who allowed them to search the property.

Deputies found a marijuana indoor grow operation in the garage that appeared to be constructed for the sole purpose of growing marijuana. It was equipped with lights, ballasts, fans, CO2, an A/C unit -- all powered by an illegal electrical connection -- and other miscellaneous items commonly used to grow marijuana.

Deputies say the 42, 6-foot marijuana plants were in the budding stage and weighed approximately 160 pounds giving them a street value of $640,000.

Deputies also learned that Leantaud had a 13-year-old child living at the home with him and his wife, Magaly Cuevas.

Leantaud, 44, was charged with trafficking in marijuana, cultivation of marijuana and own or lease for the purpose of trafficking in marijuana, child neglect and grand theft (electricity).

Cuevas, 45, was charged with trafficking in marijuana, cultivation of marijuana and child neglect.

The 13-year-old was released to family members.

The Tampa Electric Company is investigating the electricity theft. The investigation continues.

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