By now you have heard the news about the arrest of a 70-year-old man from Loves Park who was arrested for growing weed. What you don't often here is the other side of the story.

On Tuesday, it was reported that Loves Park resident, Gary Donaldson, was arrested after police received an anonymous tip that he was growing marijuana. He was subsequently taken into custody from his home in the 300 block of Pennsylvania Avenue.

After this story resonated and was shared on social media, many people felt there was more to this story than had been reported, including Donaldson's neighbor and friend Connie Hazer, who tells a different story.

Hazer is quite upset by the fact that people are poking fun at Donaldson, and explains what she refers to as the "real story"

Hazer alleges that Donaldson is a Vietnam vet. According to Hazer, Donaldson suffers from immense pain from PTSD. The marijuana he grew was for his own use. She explains the large amount of pot that he had was "misguided attempt to make this a one time crop and to freeze it for his foreseeable future."

She says there was 'no intent to deliver to anyone.' Hazer adds

The shame that this man is feeling should be felt instead by all of the people making fun of a man who ruined his future protecting yours!

You can read Hazer's full statement below.

There are always two sides to every story. A GOFUNDME page has been established for Donaldson to assist with expenses related to his defense.

Donaldson was charged with possession with intent to deliver over 5,000 grams of cannabis and violation of the cannabis control act.

 

 

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