Iowa City man accused of growing marijuana in his basement

An Iowa City man was arrested on suspicion of a variety of drug charges June 5 after police reportedly found marijuana plants growing in the basement of the man's home.

According to reports, Iowa City police officers received a complaint April 7, and located an active marijuana growing operation in the home of Jonathan P. Higgerson, 26, at 533 Olive St.

During a search, authorities say they found two marijuana plants growing in the basement, in a large tent with grow lights, a temperature gauge and a timer.

Higgerson allegedly admitted to police that he was growing marijuana, and officers were able to locate marijuana pipes, Iowa City police said.

Higgerson was arrested on suspicion of a controlled substance violation, possession of drug paraphernalia, keeping or permitting use of a controlled substance in structure or residence and possession or distribution without a tax stamp. He was being held at the Johnson County Jail Thursday morning.

Possession or distribution without a tax stamp and controlled substance violation are each class D felonies punishable by up to five years in prison and a maximum $7,500 fine.