NORWICH – The Norwich City Police Department arrested two locals Tuesday night following an investigation that resulted in the seizure of more than a pound of marijuana.
Officers executed a search warrant issued by the Chenango County Court at 19 Conkey Ave. in the city yesterday, around 8 p.m., and allegedly discovered drug paraphernalia and more than a pound of marijuana.
“Norwich police officers went to this address to conduct a search pursuant to the search warrant. Upon initial entry into the house, no one was located inside, but the couple soon arrived while the search was ongoing,” said Norwich Police Investigator Michael Purdy.
Police charged Jeremy A. Crowell, 25, of 19 Conkey Ave. with second degree criminal possession of marijuana, a D class felony, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child and second degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, misdemeanors.
The home’s other adult occupant, 23-year-old Ashley N. Wilkes, was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
Police Chief Joseph Angelino said the couple was charged with endangering the welfare of a child because two young children were present at the home and in close proximity to illegal substances.
Police said the quantity of marijuana was found along with plastic baggies and other items considered to be drug paraphernalia.
“The amount is well over a pound and in my experience, this amount is not for individual use,” said Purdy.
Purdy said further charges may be filed against Crowell because he was in possession of a 12-gauge shotgun.
“We have to determine from the courts if Crowell is allowed to possess a firearm because of his past criminal convictions” said Purdy. Police confirmed Wednesday that Crowell was a convicted felon, but did not believe he was currently on parole.
Wilkes was released with an appearance ticket, but Crowell is being held in the city’s lock-up pending his arraignment in Norwich City Court today.