Preliminary hearing postponed for New Kent man arrested in county’s largest marijuana growing operation

Daniel Ray Norwood

A preliminary hearing for Daniel Ray Norwood, the New Kent man caught up in what local law enforcement officials have labeled the largest marijuana bust in county history, has been postponed until April 7.

The hearing had been scheduled for Tuesday in New Kent General District Court, but county commonwealth’s attorney Linwood Gregory said the delay was forced because an analysis of the marijuana seized has not been received from the state crime lab.

Norwood, 54, faces one felony count each of manufacturing marijuana, possession of marijuana (more than five pounds) with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm while in possession of marijuana.

If the general district court judge certifies the charges following the preliminary hearing, the charges then go before a circuit court grand jury in May to determine if probable cause exists. Then if the grand jury returns indictments, a trial is scheduled for a later date in circuit court.

Last Dec. 15, authorities swooped down on Norwood’s home at 1476 South Waterside Drive in Lanexa. The raid uncovered a sophisticated marijuana growing operation concealed behind false walls and hidden doorways in the home’s basement.

Authorities seized more than 500 plants in various stages of growth along with an elaborate hydroponics system, lights, timers, and other equipment and materials used to grow the weed. Upstairs, officers confiscated several firearms found in a gun safe.

The raid climaxed a lengthy investigation, New Kent Chief Deputy Joe McLaughlin said at the time, adding, “[Norwood] had been on our detectives’ radar for about two years.”

Sheriff’s personnel arrested Norwood the day of the raid, but he was released on bond a few days later and remains free on bond today.