By Mary Peiper, Mason City Globe Gazette

LAKE MILLS — A Lake Mills man has been charged with having a marijuana growing operation.

Ralph Boyd Highlander, 53, of Lake Mills, has been charged with felony manufacturing of a controlled substance and sponsoring, promoting or aiding in a gathering where controlled substance were unlawfully used.

He also was charged with marijuana possession, methamphetamine possession and three counts of unlawful possession of a prescription drug, all misdemeanors.

The charges arose after the Lake Mills Police Department executed a search warrant at Highlander’s residence on April 28.

Winnebago County Attorney Adam Sauer said two marijuana plants as well as other items consistent with a marijuana growing operation were found.

Bond was set at $5,000. Highlander posted a surety bond on May 3 and was released from custody.