News Release

            On Wednesday, June 7, 2017, The Preston county Sheriff’s Department followed up on a tip from local residents that a marijuana grow operation was located at 719 Elk Run Road, near Hazelton, West Virginia. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the resident of the address, later identified as 46 year old Thomas Joseph Kirk III, who admitted to the illegal operation occurring on his property. Deputies seized 48 marijuana plants, along with sophisticated horticultural equipment from the property.

            Thomas Kirk was arrested and charged with the Manufacture of a Schedule I Controlled Substance, and was released on bond. The investigation is continuing. Anyone with any further information pertaining to this investigation is asked to contact Lieutenant Bryan at the Preston County Sheriff’s Office at 304-329-1611.

            The Preston County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the citizens of Preston County that crime tips can be reported using the Sheriff’s Office website at prestonsheriff.net, and click on “Report a crime anonymously” tab. All crime tips are confidential and will not be disseminated.