SOMERVILLE -- A Somerset County man who insists he was growing marijuana to alleviate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis rejected the state Attorney General’s final plea offer today.

Franklin Township resident John Ray Wilson, 37, who is accused of first-degree maintaining or operating a drug-production facility for the 17 plants police found in August 2008, appeared before Superior Court Judge Robert Reed and said he understands that he could face a stiffer sentence.

Wilson also is charged with second-degree manufacturing and third-degree drug possession. The state offered him nine years in prison, with three years and three months mandatory. He faces up to 35 years, if convicted and sentenced consecutively.

Defense lawyer James Wronko and Deputy Attorney General Daniel Bornstein agreed on a trial date, with jury selection slated to begin Dec. 14. Deputy Attorney General Russell Curley will represent the state.

Wilson’s case has drawn national attention amid the ongoing debate surrounding the New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act, which would give patients of debilitating diseases structured access to the drug.