On Saturday evening, Troopers with the Fairbanks Patrol attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the North Pole area, when the vehicle did not stop, they pursued the vehicle for a short distance.

The attempted traffic stop took place at approximately 6 pm on Saturday. After following the non-complient vehicle for a short while, the two occupants of the car exited the vehicle and fled on foot.

But, snow on the ground telegraphed the two people’s getaway, and troopers followed their progress from the scene. The troopers were soon led to a residence by the suspect’s footprints. Troopers quickly found the fleeing suspects, but also found a large marijuana grow at the residence that the occupants of the vehicle fled to.

The Statewide Drug Enforcement Unit was called in, they responded and secured the area with the patrol unit and a search warrant was issued for the North Pole residence.

When the area was searched, authorities would find a 152-plant grow operation in three separate building on the grounds. They also found and seized approximately 1 pound of processed marijuana and $1,315 in cash.

Troopers have identified a suspect and say that charges are forthcoming.