North Aurora man charged with growing marijuana

Narcotics investigators have arrested a North Aurora man accused of growing marijuana in his home, police said Thursday.

Kenneth M. Gauss, 36, of the 200 block of Larchwood Lane, is charged with cannabis production, possession and possession with intent to deliver, all felonies, according to court records.

Master Sgt. Jeff Kashmier of the Illinois State Police's North Central Narcotics Task Force said Gauss's arrest was the result of a two-month investigation that culminated Wednesday with the execution of a search warrant at his home. He said authorities seized 24 plants and 1,357 grams of cannabis with a combined, estimated street value of $60,000.

Gauss, who appears to have no prior criminal history in Kane County, could be sentenced to up to seven years in prison if convicted of the most serious charge, a Class 2 felony. He was released from the county jail Thursday after posting $4,500. His next court date is March 3.