By Nathan Hardin
nhardin@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY — A married couple sat behind bars on bonds totaling more than $500,000 Monday after authorities discovered a marijuana growing operation inside their home south of Salisbury.
Anthony Quinn Jackson and Karen Lynette Jackson, both 46, were arrested Monday when Rowan County investigators raided the house at 6150 Meadow Lane off Roseman Road.
According to a Rowan County Sheriff’s Office report, investigators found 64 marijuana plants, 16 firearms and more than 8 pounds of “cultivated marijuana packaged in plastic bags and glass jars.”
The Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit began its investigation of the Jacksons after getting a tip that their house was being used to sell and distribute marijuana, the agency said.
It was unclear Monday how long the marijuana growing operation had been ongoing.
Anthony and Karen Jackson were each charged with felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver marijuana; felony maintaining a dwelling for keeping, storing and selling marijuana; manufacturing a controlled substance; and misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.
Karen Jackson was also charged with possession of a firearm by a felon.
Information about her prior felony conviction was not available Monday evening.
Anthony Jackson was given a $250,000 bond. Karen Jackson was given a $275,000 bond. They were both in jail Monday night.