Baby found in marijuana grow house, two arrested, Hillsborough County deputies say

PLANT CITY, Fla. -- Acting on a Crime Stoppers tip, Hillsborough County deputies went to a Plant City home where they found a 3-week-old child in the middle of a hydroponic marijuana growing operation, according to a sheriff's statement.

Deputies made the bust on April 13 at 2203 Bruton Road. When they arrived, they recognized the strong odor of marijuana. They also spotted a box of fresh clippings in a box on the front porch.

After obtaining a warrant, they found 37 hydroponic plants valued at about $60,000. They also found marijuana that was stored in the infant's bedroom, according to the statement.

Neighbor Monica Case was shocked to hear the child's room was used for drying marijuana. "I can't believe that. How could they do that to a baby? I have kids of my own. It's shocking," she said.

The baby was removed by Child Protective Services.

Christopher Holbrooks, 30, and Angela Holbrooks, 34, were arrested and charged with Manufacture of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana, Possession for Purpose of Manufacturing and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

"We're also investigating charges with the child," said sheriff's spokeswoman Debbie Carter.