Crime & Safety

Oak Forest Stepfather-Son Duo Hid 'Secret Garden' of Pot Plants Behind Fake Door

Oak Forest police busted a small cannabis operation out of Oak Forest June 20.

An Oak Forest man and his stepson face drug charges after police discovered a growing operation and supply of pot in their home. 

Peter McCutcheon, 47, was charged with production of cannabis, possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia after police executed a search warrant at the home in the 15600 block of Laramie Friday, June 20.

His stepson William Young, 27, was charged with possession of cannabis and paraphernalia.

Oak Forest police set up outside the home to confront Young, and found on him four clear plastic baggies of a green, leafy substance, which tested positive for 18.5 grams of cannabis. 

Inside the home, police found two metal pipes, a hitter box, and a scale covered with green, leafy residue, according to reports. A search of Young's bedroom turned up an additional three pipes containing a burnt, green residue, and a safe holding four glass jars of pot. The closet held 65 grams of cannabis, police said. 

Young and William allegedly had hidden in the basement—behind a secret room covered by a makeshift door—six cannabis plants, two high-powered heat lamps, a ventilation system and fans. Plant food, soil and fertilizers were also found nearby. Officers also discovered 10 long rifles, several revolvers and a hand gun. 

Young posted bond and was issued a July 8 court date at Bridgeview. McCutcheon was charged with production of cannabis plants (more than 5, less than 20), possession of more than 20 grams of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was transported to 26th and California for a bond hearing.

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