Naples man accused of running growhouse in Lehigh Acres

An anonymous tip led deputies to a Naples man accused of growing marijuana in a Lehigh Acres home.

According to reports, when Lee deputies arrived at 3002 25 Street Southwest, Lehigh Acres, they came in contact with 41-year-old Juan Jimenez Miguel. He was with three other people who seemed to be nervous when they saw deputies. Miguel was going in and out of the residence and appeared to be getting ready to leave the other individuals.

As they approached the residence, deputies say they could smell a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside. They explained to Miguel they were there investigating anonymous tip, and they would like permission to search the residence. Reports say Miguel gave consent, but went on to explain that the others were not involved in his operation.

Miguel escorted deputies through the home where they learned that one bedroom had been converted into a marijuana grow operation. It had approximately 17 high-powered lights, an irrigation system and an air purifier to hide the smell. All the plants had been clipped except for two and the buds were hanging on a line to dry out.

Miguel, of the 4000 block of 6th Avenue Southeast, was arrested at the house and is facing charges of producing marijuana, drug equipment possession for manufacture, and marijuana trafficking.