Chevy Chase man arrested for growing marijuana in park

Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2008

Chevy Chase man arrested for growing marijuana in park

Officials discovered plants in Rock Creek Park tracking GPS-outfitted turtle

by Andrew Ujifusa | Staff Writer

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A Chevy Chase resident was arrested last week in connection with a marijuana field growing in Rock Creek Park south of the Maryland line.

Isiah Johnson, 19, a resident of the 2300 block of Washington Avenue, was charged July 30 with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute after United States Park Police discovered 10 marijuana plants growing in a remote part of the park.

The field was discovered on July 14 by a National Park Service employee who was tracking a box turtle outfitted with GPS for research purposes. The turtle was within the field, which appeared to be under active cultivation, and police set up surveillance at the site after being alerted. The suspect was observed caring for the plants.

Johnson was arrested by Montgomery County Police detectives and United States Park Police.