AC Woman Sentenced to 6 Years for Pot Growing Operation

Brandie Howerton admitted to running a marijuana production facility out of her home.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A 52-year-old Atlantic City woman named Brandie Howerton was sentenced to 6 years in prison after admitting to running a marijuana production facility out of her home. Police found 11 pot plants and growing equipment when they arrested Howerton in December 2024.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing legal and enforcement challenges around marijuana, even in states where it has been legalized, as well as the potential harsh penalties individuals can face for home-based cultivation operations.

The details

According to reports, police arrested Howerton at her home in the 600 block of Drexel Avenue in Atlantic City on December 11, 2024. They found 11 marijuana plants along with two UV lights used for growing the plants indoors. Howerton later admitted to running a marijuana production facility out of her residence.

  • Howerton was arrested on December 11, 2024.
  • Howerton was sentenced to 6 years in prison on February 11, 2026.

The players

Brandie Howerton

A 52-year-old Atlantic City resident who was arrested and sentenced to 6 years in prison for running a marijuana production facility out of her home.

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The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing legal complexities and harsh penalties individuals can face for marijuana-related offenses, even in states where the drug has been legalized, highlighting the need for continued reform and a more compassionate approach to drug policy.