Lake in the Hills man charged with growing marijuana

A Lake in the Hills man is facing drug charges after authorities say they found him growing marijuana and packaging it for sale.

Thomas M. Discher, 47, was charged Monday with production of cannabis sativa plants, unlawful delivery of cannabis, unlawful possession of cannabis and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, according to the McHenry County sheriff's office.

Members of the sheriff's office's Narcotics Task Force launched an investigation after receiving a tip about a marijuana grow operation at a home in the 100 block of Grant Avenue, officials said.

Detectives executed a search warrant Monday and arrested Discher, who was at the residence with his wife and four children, according to the sheriff's office.

Authorities said they found 74 cannabis plants, many of which were at least 6 feet tall; 182.2 grams of marijuana packaged for sale; and additional packaging materials and equipment. The marijuana seized had an estimated street value of $56,064, officials said.

Discher was being held on $50,000 bail at the McHenry County jail. He is due in court Sept. 26.

Anyone with information about suspected drug dealing or other suspicious activity is asked to call the sheriff's office at (815) 338-2144. They can report anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of McHenry at (800) 762-7637.