An extensive investigation and execution of a search warrant led to the uncovering of a local marijuana growing operation and drug bust during which three Middletown residents were arrested at their township home.

On July 9, Kenneth Newell, 48, Samuel Hudson, 26, and Nicole Boutiette, 25, all of Carter Avenue in Middletown, were arrested by Middletown police after a search warrant of their home was executed based on evidence of a marijuana growing operation there, according to a Middletown police report.

Newell was charged with: possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, theft of lost or mislaid property, possession of under 50 grams of marijuana, unlawful possession of a rifle and on a contempt of court warrant issued by the Holmdel Municipal Court, the report said.

Hudson was charged with: possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of under 50 grams of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of heroin, possession of hypodermic syringes and unlawful possession of a rifle, according to police.

Boutiette was charged with: possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, possession of under 50 grams of marijuana, possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of hypodermic syringes and unlawful possession of a weapon, police said in the report.

Newell was held on $5,750 bail; and Hudson and Boutiette were held on $5,000 bail, set by Judge D’Auria.

The warrant execution was a result of an investigation conducted by Officer Adam Colfer.