Hays Couple Facing Federal Drug Charges

A Hays couple accused of growing marijuana in their home are facing federal charges.

According to U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom’s Office, 29-year-old Joseph Anthony Ransom of Ellis and 21-year-old Carly Marie Dreiling of Hays are charged with one count of growing 181 marijuana plants in the basement of their residence, one count of possessing 181 marijuana plants, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

The crimes are alleged to have occurred Sept. 25, 2014, in Ellis County, Kan.

If convicted, they face a maximum penalty of 20 years and a fine up to $1 million on each of the drug charges; and a penalty of not less than five years and a fine up to $250,000 on the firearm charge. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Lind is prosecuting.