Richard L. Yang, Marijuana Manufacturing, Rhode Island 2023

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PROVIDENCE MEN CHARGED IN LARGE SCALE MARIJUANA GROW

TWO Providence men have been charged with manufacturing over 100 marijuana plants and conspiracy to manufacture marijuana, along with other crimes, in connection with an alleged large scale indoor marijuana growing operation inside a converted mill building in Providence and a local residence.

According to court documents, FBI agents assisted by DEA agents, Rhode Island State Police, and Providence Police Department, executed nine federal court authorized search warrants at 725 Branch Avenue in Providence, where approximately 1,400 marijuana plants in various stages of growth were discovered. A tenth search warrant was executed at 60 Valley Street in Providence, where approximately 100 marijuana plants in various stages of growth were found.

Also seized by law enforcement were a .22 caliber firearm and ammunition, and approximately $14,000 in cash. Richard L. Yang, 35, was released to home confinement and electronic monitoring after his initial appearance in federal court. William L. Ricci, 69, the owner and a resident of the 725 Branch Avenue facility, was released after his initial appearance on a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The matter is being prosecuted in federal court by Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Ferland. A third defendant has been arrested and charged in state court in connection with the investigation.

Richard L. Yang, 35, and William L. Ricci, 69, appeared in U.S. District Court in Providence, where they face federal charges for their alleged involvement in the large scale marijuana growing operation.

This is an ongoing investigation, and further arrests are possible. The public is advised to report any information regarding this case to the authorities.

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