Fatal crash reveals pot stash

ELLICOTT CITY, Md. - An Ellicott City man has more than just insurance claims to worry about after a car crashed into his home earlier this month.

Police say the crash revealed that Richard Marriott, 44, had an indoor marijuana farm.

Marriott and another person were uninjured when a BMW driven by Bryan Bolster, 20, crashed into Marriott's house and burst into flames on Dec. 10. Bolster died in the crash.

Howard County police say fire investigators were inspecting Marriott's home for structural damage when they found the drugs.

Police got a search warrant and found what they describe as an extensive growing operation, with nearly 20 large marijuana plants.

Marriott was arrested yesterday and was being held on $15,000 bond.

Court records show he also faces trial next month on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.