Durham men charged after marijuana found during investigation into illegal off-road vehicle activity

DURHAM, NC (WNCN) – Durham police seized two ATVs and a dirt bike, as well as several marijuana products, in connection with years of illegal activity, officials said.

According to Durham Police, officers executed a search warrant on May 28 for the 600 block of Weeping Willow Drive in response to “recurring” illegal dirt bike and ATV activity.

During the search, officers found the three vehicles as well as 10.6 pounds of marijuana, 25.6 grams of illegal cannabis products, 67 THC vaporizers and $751 in cash, police said.

Officers arrested 30-year-old Daniel Francis Hughes of Durham on the following charges:

• Possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana
• Serious possession of marijuana
• Maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances
• Possession of marijuana paraphernalia
• Operating an ATV on the road
• Operating a vehicle on a sidewalk

Durham Police also arrested 29-year-old Jesiah Reon Vareene on the following charges:

• Possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana
• Marijuana trafficking
• Maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances
• Maintaining a vehicle for controlled substances
• Possession of marijuana paraphernalia

In a press release, Durham Police stated, “Contrary to the portrayal of illegal dirt bike and ATV operators, many individuals who violate state law by participating in these rides are adults and involved in other criminal activity.”