Man pleads not guilty to C-Falls pot grow

A 33-year-old former Columbia Falls man has pleaded not guilty to a felony charge of criminal manufacture of dangerous drugs related to a marijuana grow in Columbia Falls.

Jedidiah McDonald faces a maximum of two years to life in prison and a $50,000 fine if convicted. He pleaded not guilty to the charge in Flathead County District Court on Jan. 21.

According to court records, the Northwest Drug Task Force learned from a confidential informant about a marijuana grow on U.S. 2 East on Aug. 8, 2013. The agents obtained a subpoena for the resident’s electrical bills after conducting surveillance at the residence and found higher than expected power usage.

A search warrant was executed on Aug. 27. The agents found Dan Grasser in the garage and 158 marijuana plants at the property in various stages of growth. They also found lighting equipment, fans and other equipment used to grow marijuana and some marijuana ready for use or sale.

Grasser allegedly told the agents he operated the grow for McDonald, information that the agents confirmed with McDonald’s cousin. When the agents interviewed McDonald, he allegedly admitted the pot grow was his.

McDonald also said his Montana medical marijuana card had expired, and nobody else at the residence had a Montana medical marijuana card.

Bond was set at $10,000, but McDonald was released on his own recognizance. His next hearing is scheduled for April 9.