Investigators spot marijuana-growing operation in Sampson County

GARLAND, N.C. — An aerial investigation over Sampson County yielded a marijuana "jackpot," Sheriff Jimmy Thornton said.

Deputies identified four major plots of pot located just off of Wright’s Bridge Road north of Garland, he said.

“This was a well established marijuana growing operation," Thornton said. "Basically, the only way it could be found was from the air. There’s no way you can just happen to wander upon it.”

Investigators found an irrigation system complete with green-painted pipes, along with huts and tents used for shelter by the growers, he said.