(MARS HILL) -- Madison County's Tax Administrator, Chris Maney, faces drug charges. The Madison County Sheriff’s Office and the State Bureau of Investigation seized about 5.5 pounds of marijuana at his home in Mars Hill on Wednesday.

The Madison County Sheriff's Office said the raid was conducted after they received a tip that pot was being grown adjacent to Maney’s residence. SBI spokeswoman Noelle Talley said eight potted marijuana plants were found at Maney's home.

"He faces charges of maintaining a dwelling for the possession and manufacture of marijuana as well as felony possession of marijuana and felony manufacturing of marijuana," said Talley.

Maney has been suspended with pay by the county. County Manager Steve Garrison said Maney will remain on suspension until he is either acquitted or convicted.

(Thanks to: WWNC)