Chester County marijuana operation goes up in smoke after police seized 180 pounds of marijuana

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WEST WHITELAND TOWNSHIP, Pa. – Two Exton residents have been arrested in connection with a drug trafficking operation that authorities say involved more than 180 pounds of marijuana and multiple firearms.

Christian Sholly, 32, and Josiah Silva, 23, were taken into custody Oct. 4 after Chester County detectives executed search warrants at two homes on the 400 block of Henley Drive. The search turned up 60 pounds of marijuana, $180,000 in cash, jewelry and five firearms. Bail for both defendants was set at $250,000 by Magisterial District Judge Erin Bruno.

“This was a home invasion waiting to happen,” said Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe. “The defendants had an absurd amount of marijuana, cash and jewelry. By shutting down this operation, detectives have prevented violent crimes from happening in West Whiteland.”

Days after the initial arrests, detectives linked Sholly to a storage unit in Uwchlan Township. A search of the unit uncovered an additional 120 pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and two firearms, including a ghost gun. Officials noted that Sholly, who has a prior felony conviction, is legally barred from owning firearms.

Both Sholly and Silva have been charged with possession with intent to deliver and other related offenses. Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the operation as both defendants await legal proceedings.