West Hartford Police, in cooperation with the Statewide Narcotics Task force and the DEA, have arrested a West Hartford man on multiple charges, including ‘operating a drug factory.’

Christopher J. Colby. Photo courtesy of Connecticut State Police

By Ronni Newton

A West Hartford man is facing multiple charges after more than 66 marijuana plants as well as marijuana buds, THC butter, and drug paraphernalia were found in his home.

According to news releases from West Hartford and Connecticut State Police, following a “lengthy investigation,” officers executed a warrant to search the 443 South Quaker Lane home of Christopher J. Colby.

Police said that they discovered a “grow room” in the attic which contained more than 66 marijuana plants at various stages of growth as well as high intensity lights and other materials “consistent with the cultivation of marijuana.”

In addition, police said they also found and seized 27 mason jars that contained a “large quantity of marijuana buds of various strands, a large quantity of ‘THC-Butter’ made from the extracted marijuana oils, and numerous paraphernalia items such as pipes, bongs and fertilizing agents.”

A “small stash” of illegal fireworks was also found in Colby’s home, police said.

Marijuana plants and other items seized from 443 South Quaker Lane, West Hartford. Photo courtesy of Connecticut State Police

Colby, 34, was taken into custody at his home and charged with cultivation of marijuana, operating a drug factory, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of fireworks. He was also charged with risk of injury to a minor due to the presence of a 3 1/2-year-old female child who was in the home and according to police “had access to the marijuana and fireworks.”

Colby was released on $50,000 non-surety bond and is due to appear in Hartford Superior Court on Jan. 26.

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