BAINBRIDGE – Last week, state officials carrying out a surprise inspection of a residential day care provider discovered a marijuana growing operation in the home’s basement and backyard.

The New York State Office of Children and Family Services, Bureau of Day Care Enforcement, contacted the New York State Police in Sidney after discovering marijuana plants during a “surprise inspection” of a day care facility located at 1566 County Route 39, in the Town of Bainbridge on May 16.

State Police reported the site was a licensed day care facility operated by 22-year-old Stephanie L. Emerson.

Police said a licensed day care inspector found marijuana plants growing in the home’s basement. They contacted police, who then conducted another search of the residence and property where police discovered additional plants growing in the back yard. In addition to the plants, police said they found a modified shotgun, a small amount of prescription medication, and additional processed marijuana was located within the home.