A West Hartford man was arrested for growing 31 marijuana plants in the yard of a residence.

Marijuana seized from the residence of Luke Kist. Courtesy of West Hartford Police

By Ronni Newton 

West Hartford Police said a 38-year-old resident was arrested by warrant on Sept. 14 after an investigation indicated he was growing multiple marijuana plants at a local residence.

According to police, a complaint was received on Aug. 23 that marijuana was visibly being grown in the yard of a local residence. The department’s Community Support Unit (CSU) conducted an investigation, and noted that mature marijuana plants were growing in the yard of a residence where they were visible by the public.

Police successfully executed a search and seizure warrant on Sept. 14, and Sgt. Amanda Martin said in an email Thursday that approximately 31 marijuana plants were seized from a local residence and the occupant, Luke Kist, 38, was arrested and charged with possession with intent to distribute 1 kilogram or more of cannabis and possession of more than 5 ounces of cannabis.

Kist was released on $10,000 non-surety bond and scheduled to appear in Hartford Superior Court on Sept. 28, police said.

Police did not indicate where Kist lived.

Police noted that Connecticut residents over the age of 21 can legally possess and consume marijuana, subject to state regulations which can be found here: Adult-Use Cannabis in Connecticut.

Regulations regarding growing marijuana, according to Connecticut statute, are as follows: “Medical marijuana patients 18 years and older will be able to grow up to 3 mature and 3 immature plants at home starting October 1, 2021, with a cap of 12 total plants per household. All adults over age 21 will be able to grow under the same rules starting July 1, 2023. Plants must be grown indoors and must not be visible from the street. People who choose to grow their own plants must do so in their primary residence and where individuals under 21 can not access the plants.”

West Hartford Police said that members of the public should report suspicious or illegal activity by calling 860-523-5203 or the anonymous tip line at 860-570-8969 or by email at [email protected].

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