A 73-year-old DeRidder man has been arrested after authorities found 25 marijuana plants in his home.

Beauregard Parish Sheriff Ricky Moses said Johnny A. Niel was arrested Wednesday and charged with manufacturing and distributing marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and illegal carrying of a weapon.

“The plants were over 4 feet tall and reported to be very healthy,” Moses said. “The plants have an estimated street value of $7,500.”

Bond was set at $52,000.

(Special to the American Press)

Johnny Niel Jr.