>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Tom R. Bobbitt, a local man arrested earlier this year on drug charges, may have to forfeit his La Grande residence if he is found guilty.

About 3 p.m. Tuesday, the Oregon State Police, supported by officers from the La Grande Police Department and the Union County Sheriff’s Office, swooped in on the house at 1309 Fourth St.

The officers were there to appraise the condition of the house and inventory its contents, Union County District Attorney Tim Thompson said. He said the house could be subject to forfeiture laws if Bobbitt is found guilty of the drug crimes.

Oregon State Police arrested Bobbitt, 55, in May. Officers said they found more than eight pounds of marijuana, approximately $11,000 cash and three firearms at the residence.

Bobbitt was charged with unlawful possession of marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school, unlawful delivery of marijuana within 1,000 feet of a school and unlawful manufacture within 1,000 feet of a school.

Later he was released on bail. Trial is pending.