The Berlin Police Department, detective division, arrested Richard Luppino, 49, of 1044 Farmington Ave., on numerous drug charges, Aug. 13, following a lengthy investigation.

The investigation was initiated due to information provided by members of the New Britain Police Department and the West Hartford Police Department regarding a marijuana growing operation at the above address (Suburban Windows and Siding).

Luppino was arrested on the following charges: illegal cultivation of marijuana; possession of marijuana with intent to sell; operating a drug factory; possession of marijuana; possession of drug paraphernalia

During the course of the investigation, two search and seizure warrants were obtained and executed by Berlin police. As a result of the warrant execution, 132 marijuana plants were seized from the location, along with numerous containers of dried, packaged marijuana, one handgun, a significant amount of hydroponic growing equipment and approximately $8,000 in cash. The marijuana plants and the packaged marijuana have an estimated street value of $250,000.

Luppino was released on a police department set bond of $150,000. He is scheduled to appear in the New Britain Superior Court Aug. 26.

(Information provided by the Berlin Police Department.)