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Greene man accused of growing pot in park

Briefs ; Greene man accused of growing pot in park

Date published: 11/8/2002

A Greene County man has been charged with growing marijuana in Shenandoah National Park.

A federal grand jury indicted Edison Crawford, 50, of Dyke on a single count of producing an illegal controlled substance. Crawford was arrested at his Bacon Hollow home Wednesday night and later released on bond.

Park Superintendent Douglas Morris said the indictment stems from a marijuana plot discovered within Shenandoah boundaries in October 2001. Law-enforcement officials confiscated 80 plants with an estimated street value of $66,400, he said.

"Growing marijuana in the park causes numerous problems," Morris said. "In addition to the known problems the drug causes for individuals and society, it also damages park resources and destroys habitat."

Morris said the park's law-enforcement staff would continue to aggressively pursue marijuana violations.

The investigation and arrest was a joint effort by park rangers, U.S. marshals, the U.S. Customs Service and the Greene County Sheriff's Office. Park officials said yesterday additional charges may be filed as the probe continues.

--Donnie Johnston

Date published: 11/8/2002