Michael Richard Martin

Two Paden City residents are facing felony drug charges after they were observed near the city park carrying potted marijuana plants on June 23.

Michael Richard Martin, 19, and Andrew Scott Laugh, 20, both of Paden City, are charged with cultivation of marijuana after they were spotted carrying pots with what appeared to be marijuana.

According to Paden City Police Chief Michael BIlliter, the duo planned to plant the marijuana on the riverbank.

“The two were observed with the plant. One was carrying it and the other was carrying a shovel.”

They were placed under arrest by Patrolman Michael Owens of the PCPD.

Andrew Scott Laugh

Martin and Laugh were housed in the Northern Regional Jail in Moundsville. Bail of $5,000 for each was posted and they were released.

The matter is still under investigation.