An investigation by Orchard Park Police into an assault case led detectives to a large pot growing operation.
Authorities say the investigation began after an 18-year-old man flagged down a school bus Thursday morning. He told the driver he had been robbed and beaten by "three guys with guns" while staying at a house on Chestnut Ridge Road. The incident was recorded on social media.
On Friday morning, a police SWAT team executed a search warrant at the house. They found the victim’s property, a loaded firearm and large quantities of drug paraphernalia.
They also discovered two locked rooms in the basement, which contained what police called “a large, sophisticated marijuana growing and packaging operation.”
There were eight people inside when police arrived. One of them was arrested in the robbery and assault case.
Jacob Page, 19, has been charged with assault, robbery, menacing and petit larceny. He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.
Charges against two other people are pending. The house has since been boarded up and condemned due to unsafe conditions.
