Building inspector finds pot growing facility

Renter also charged with possession of assault rifle

By:Emily Craighead
   A routine building inspection led to the discovery of a marijuana production facility and weapons stash in a West Camplain Road residence Jan. 5.
   Scott Falkenberg, 39, of West Camplain Road was charged with the first-degree crime of maintaining a marijuana production facility, second-degree possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, second-degree possession of a firearm while in possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute, and third-degree unlawful possession of an assault rifle.
   The charges followed a Manville building inspector’s routine and mandatory inspection of the apartment Mr. Falkenberg rents in a two-family house. Borough ordinance requires rental unit inspections every five years.The inspector contacted the Manville Police Department after he discovered the marijuana plants, police in turn alerted the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Organized Crime and Narcotics Task Force, according to Somerset County Prosecutor Wayne Forrest.
   Mr. Falkenberg, whose landlord informed him in the morning of Jan. 5 that the inspection would take place, had left the door unlocked for the building inspector.
   Detectives who searched the residence discovered 34 marijuana plants, both potted and hydroponic, in various stages of growth, as well as indoor lights, carbon dioxide tanks, ventilation and hydration systems, and a tank used to clone existing plants, according to Mr. Forrest.
   The estimated street value of the seized marijuana plants, when mature, would have been approximately $75,000.
   Detectives also seized three shotguns and one SKS 7.62 assault rifle.
   Mr. Falkenberg was released from the Somerset County Jail Friday, Jan. 7 on $50,000 bond.