MAUI POLICE RECOVER 1,232 MARIJUANA PLANTS, ARREST MAKAWAO MAN

Maui police confiscated 1,232 marijuana plants and arrested a Makawao man during a drug bust on Piiholo Road last week.  Authorities arrested 36-year-old Eric Welander during a search warrant at a dwelling on the property on Wednesday, July 8, 2009.

Eric Welander. Photo courtesy Maui Police Department.

In addition to the plants, 187 marijuana cuttings were found, 8.9 pounds of processed pot was recovered, and smaller amounts of hashish and psilocybin mushrooms were confiscated.  Indoor grow paraphernalia found at the site included fluorescent and high pressure sodium grow lights, fans, ballasts, timer systems, and numerous trays and pots.  Also recovered was a loaded shotgun with numerous rounds of ammunition and $458 in U.S. currency.

Welander, who is unemployed and resides at the residence, was being held in lieu of $145,000 bail.  He was arrested on various drug charges including commercial promotion of a dangerous drug, a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and prohibited acts relating to drug paraphernalia.

Maui Police say Welander is suspected of running the sophisticated indoor grow operation, and say he was selling marijuana in multi pound quantities.  Authorities also found a small outdoor grow operation.  The investigation is ongoing.

(Posted by Wendy Osher; Photos Courtesy: Maui Police Department)

Photo courtesy: Maui Police Department.

Photo courtesy: Maui Police Department.

Photo courtesy: Maui Police Department.

Photo courtesy: Maui Police Department.