A hunter in a wooded area north of Waco recently called police after making a big discovery – 13 patches of marijuana growing, nearly 10,000 plants in all. Police say it may be the largest marijuana operation ever uncovered in Hill County. At the site, deputies discovered temporary living quarters, likely used by harvesters, as well as a kitchen and a gathering area. Most of the marijuana was harvested already, but there were still many plants remaining. No suspects were found, and it took three days for police to destroy the crop.
What Happens If I Am Caught Growing Weed in Texas?
In Texas, it is illegal to cultivate or sell marijuana, or possess it with the intent to do so. But the penalties for being caught cultivating can vary dramatically. Cultivation penalties are based upon the aggregate weight of the plants found. Here is a list of charges and penalties for various amounts of weed:
- 2 oz or less: a misdemeanor charge with a penalty of up to 180 days incarceration and up to $2000 in fines
- 2 to 4 oz: a misdemeanor charge with a penalty of up to one year incarceration and up to $4,000 in fines
- 4 oz to 5 lbs: a felony charge with a penalty of between 180 days and two years incarceration and up to $10,000 in fines.
- 5 to 50 lbs: a felony charge with a penalty of two to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
- 50 to 2000 lbs: a felony charge with a penalty of two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
- More than 2000 lbs: a felony charge with a penalty of five to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000
As you can see, these penalties can be serious, even for minor grow operations. If you have been charged with cultivation of marijuana, talk to our criminal defense attorney.
Mike GoolsbyA veteran in both civil court cases and criminal defense, Mike Goolsby is a respected lawyer with more than 16 years of experience practicing law. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of North Texas in 1990, followed by his J.D. from the prestigious Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1994.
After earning his law degree, Mr. Goolsby worked as an Assistant District Attorney for the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. As a trial lawyer, he was able to gain exceptional access to the criminal court system in this major metropolitan area, giving him immeasurable, distinct experience that helped him build a solid foundation for his own private legal practice.
Mr. Goolsby went on to practice civil law for Maverick Acceptance Group, a venture capital company. Here, he gained invaluable knowledge of the civil side of the law, adding to his already diverse portfolio of legal expertise.
In 1999, he opened the doors of The Goolsby Law Firm and has been successfully serving the residents of North Texas ever since. As an attorney, Mr. Goolsby combines his experience in both the civil and criminal fields to offer unmatched legal representation to his clients. With a long list of satisfied clients, Mr. Goolsby continues to build his practice through fair and aggressive legal defense.