NEW: Massive FBI Pot Raid Takes Thousands of Plants in Rhode Island

Thursday, August 13, 2015

GoLocalProv News Team

Thousands of pot plants were reported to be taken in a FBI raid in Rhode Island on Wednesday, in what could be one of the state's biggest drug busts ever.

Updated 4:15 PM

"There are two individuals being brought into court this afternoon, at which time I anticipate at least some of the documents will be unsealed," said Jim Martin with the U.S. Attorney's Office, nothing that they would appear in federal court. "We still have to determine the numbers."

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Martin updated the numbers late Thursday afternoon. "There were 1500 plants taken -- 1400 at Branch Ave, plus a hundred at a residence on Valley Street," said Martin. "The FBI also took $14,000 in cash and a fiream."

"This is very much an ongoing investigation," said Martin, nothing that there was a third individual due to be charged by the state.

Information Forthcoming

On Wednesday, the FBI and U.S. Attorney's office had confirmed there was an ongoing investigation stemming from the early morning raid, but would provide no further information.

FBI Boston office media specialist Kristen Setera confirmed that the FBI was "conducting court authorized activity" in Providence along with other law enforcement agencies, and referred all comment to Jim Martin at the U.S. Attorney's office.

"I can't say anymore than that, but yes, there is a law enforcement authorized investigation," said Martin on Wednesday, noting that involved the FBI and DEA.

When asked when the U.S. Attorney's office would release any information, Martin said,' That is dependent upon the results of the investigation and whether or not the investigation finds anything."

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Multiple sources had reported that over 7,000 marijuana plants were taken from the location. A tenant walking a dog next to a building at a mill complex on Branch Avenue told GoLocal he saw 15-20 FBI agents going in and out of the building on Wednesday.

Editor's Note: A previous version had reports saying there were over 7,000 plants taken; the U.S. Attorney's office said Thursday afternoon that number was closer to 1500.

Related Slideshow: The Highest Marijuana Prices in 2015 in New England by State

Forbes.com recently released a graphic that looks at how much an ounce of marijuana costs in every state in America, as well as the District of Columbia. The national average is $324.

Below is a look at where New England states fall in the rankings, as well as where marijuana is the most expensive and least expensive nationally.