Traffic Stop Leads to Discovery of Illegal Marijuana Grow Operation in Columbus

On January 5, 2025, a routine traffic stop in Columbus led to the discovery of an illegal marijuana grow operation. Officers stopped Marcus Mathis, 54, for a stop sign violation at Illges Road and Carver Street. During the stop, officers searched the vehicle and found a large marijuana plant inside, prompting further investigation.

Following the stop, search warrants were executed at two residences connected to Mathis—one on Pecan Street and the other on Bellamy Street. The searches uncovered significant amounts of illegal items, including 532.51 grams of marijuana, valued at $5,325.10, along with marijuana seeds, grow lights, scales, baggies, potting soil, pipes, bongs, temperature-controlled refrigerators, and two firearms.

Both Mathis and his passenger, Megan Moore, 47, were taken into custody. They face charges for manufacturing marijuana, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of drug-related objects.

The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence related to the operation.