A Clarion County man was sentenced to probation after being charged with having a marijuana grow operation in the basement of his former Evans City home in August.

John E. Smeltzer, 37, of Rimersburg, was sentenced to 1 year of county probation by Judge William Shaffer. He was also ordered to pay court costs and complete 30 hours of community service.

Smeltzer pleaded guilty April 9 to felony illegal manufacture of marijuana.

Evans City Seven Fields Regional Police filed the charges after an incident in the 200 block of Hill Street on Aug. 29.

Police went to the home after a tip that two men with felony warrants on aggravated assault and strangulation charges were there — Dakota McFarland and Jeremiah Fleeger.

Police with Jackson Township, Adams Township and state police troopers surrounded the home and knocked on the door, which was answered by a man who was not charged in the incident. That person reported that Smeltzer, the homeowner, was inside, as well as McFarland sleeping in the basement, police said.

Inside the basement, police said, a marijuana grow operation was found, with 12 total plants and seeds in a pill bottle. Assorted medications pulled out of capsules and separated on plates were also found, as well as three bongs, six pipes, four grinders and a scale.

Smeltzer apologized during the proceeding.