NORWICH – While the national debate on gun control and semi-automatic, assault rifle-like weapons grinds on following the Aurora, Colo., Sandy Hook Elementary School and Webster shootings, a Norwich man accused of possessing a potentially deadly arsenal – as well as more than 40 marijuana plants – is expected to make his first appearance in Chenango County Court this morning.

Henry W. Hemsley, 73, was indicted by a Chenango County grand jury in December on charges of second degree criminal possession of marijuana, a class D felony; six counts of third degree criminal possession of a weapon, a class D felony; and seven counts of fourth degree criminal possession of a weapon, a class A misdemeanor. Hemsley could face up to nine and a half years in state prison if convicted on all felony charges. He was first arraigned in the Town of Norwich Court – prior to his indictment – and remanded to the Chenango County Correctional Facility on $2,500 cash bail. He has since been released after posting bail.