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Police are looking for a 33-year-old man who they say operated an illegal marijuana growing operation in Howell.

(Courtesy of Howell Township Police Department)

Police have an arrest warrant for Guillermo Fabian, 33.

HOWELL – Police are asking for the public assistance to a man they say ran an extensive marijuana growing operation inside of a Danella Way home.

Guillermo Fabian, 33, whose last known address was in Elizabeth, has warrants issued for his arrest on drug possession and distribution charges for the illegal growing operation.

A March 11 search of the Danella Way house Fabian rented from a 76-year-old man turned up 32 mature marijuana plants, Howell police said in a release. All of the plants were at least six-feet tall, along with a “very elaborate” growing system with fluorescent lights, irrigation and drainage systems, insulation to contain heat and blowers to vent air to the second floor, police said.

“The odor of raw marijuana inside the home was completely overwhelming,” the release said.

Black mold from the plant ventilation system also covered the second floor and attic, police said.

Police said Jersey Central Power & Light cut power to the house. The grow operation had illegally tapped into the power line before the meter pan and a subpanel and transformers were also set up inside the house, police said.

“The home was unfurnished and it was clear the residence was used for the sole purpose of growing marijuana,” the release said. “This is another example of the lengths criminals will go to in order to commit their crimes.”

Fabian was charged with possession of more than 50 grams of marijuana, distribution of more than 25 pounds of marijuana, maintaining and operating a controlled dangerous substance production facility and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Without a unit dedicated to investigating narcotics and weapons offenses in the Howell police department, police said officers must investigate these crimes in addition to their regular patrol responsibilities.

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“Although manpower levels at this time do not allow the formation of a dedicated unit, these officers voluntarily adjust their schedules accordingly to facilitate these investigations,” the release said, noting the investigations have resulted in “numerous” arrests.

Police are asking anyone with information on this crime or other criminal activity to call their anonymous tip line at 732-938-4575 ext. 2874.