Detectives determined three of the four children in the home — a 12-year-old and two 7 year olds — were watering the plants. Two of the children belonged to Smallwood and the other two to his girlfriend.
The 12-year-old girl labeled a binder as a grow journal and was keeping track of a watering schedule and seeds, said Sgt. David Birk.
Smallwood, 37, enlisted the help of his girlfriend’s children when they moved into the residence, according to detectives.
“His excuse was it’s just marijuana,” Birk said.
He was charged with cultivation of marijuana, a third-degree felony and two counts of endangering children, a first-degree misdemeanor. The children have been placed with a family member, according to police.
Smallwood is currently housed in the Middletown Jail in lieu of $10,000 bond. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for May 21 in Middletown Municipal Court.
About the Author
