Marshall, Missouri · Thursday, July 29, 2010
[Masthead] ~ 80°F  
High: 88°F ~ Low: 71°F
Print Email link Respond to editor Read comments (32)

Alleged pot 'farmer' charged

Friday, October 9, 2009
Ryan L. Ulmer, 33, of Nelson, has been identified as the man arrested Saturday, Oct. 3, for class B felony producing a controlled substance after Saline County Sheriff's deputies discovered more than a dozen marijuana plants growing in a shed behind his residence.

According to an incident report filed with the probable case statement, during questioning by local law enforcement officers Ulmer said he produced "one-quarter to one-half pound of marijuana every six months," which he said was all for personal use.

The report also quotes Ulmer as saying he learned how to grow marijuana from the Internet and purchased the seeds from Sweden.

If convicted, Ulmer could be sentenced to from five to 15 years in Missouri Department of Corrections.

Related story:

Alleged indoor pot grower arrested:

http://www.marshallnews.com/story/157600...

Charges contained in reports provided by law enforcement officials are not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting charges must be presented before a jury, whose duty is to determine if the accused is guilty or not guilty of the charges.

Contact Kathy Fairchild at marshallhealth@socket.net


Comments
Note: The nature of the Internet makes it impractical for our staff to review every comment. If you feel that a comment is offensive, please Login or Create an account first, and then you will be able to flag a comment as objectionable. Please also note that those who post comments on marshallnews.com may do so using a screen name, which may or may not reflect a website user's actual name. Readers should be careful not to assign comments to real people who may have names similar to screen names. Refrain from obscenity in your comments, and to keep discussions civil, don't say anything in a way your grandmother would be ashamed to read.

This guy.

Nice nice hissy fit.I never said he didn't have to suffer the consequences. My point is that for adults there should be no consequences to suffer.

A law like this that results in prison for growing pot is wrong period. Not paying taxes on your car won't get you thron in prison.I think that comparision is a little off the mark.

As I said, legalities aside, what if he had been making beer, wine or spirits. Would you be so morally or legally opposed to making substances that are well known to cause great harm when abused? Death even?

Did you know that there is not one documented case of anyone ever dying from ingesting too much marijauna? The same cannot be said for alcohol, tobacco or even food for that matter. We grow the raw materials for those everyday without consequences. One has to ask, why is it illgal and why do so many people refuse to educate themselves about it. Does it bother you that Missouri prisons are now incarcerating a record number of people? I wonder how many are there for marijuana?

My running for office won't change anything. We have to change the perception and educate people about marjiuana and hemp in general. The history of it's criminality is infuriating and any freedom loving American would be appalled buy it if they only knew a little about it. Are you willing to do that? If I provided links, would you go there and educate yourself or would you rather stay in the dark?

-- Posted by What the f...... on Wed, Oct 21, 2009, at 6:45 PM

thisguy,

Good Job couldn't agree more!

-- Posted by Gumby on Tue, Oct 20, 2009, at 1:03 AM

oh and while news across has me all fired up, wtf, making beer and wine in your basement is not ILLEGAL, growing weed is, just like selling weed is, just like smoking weed is. it doesn't matter whether it comes from god green earth or not, it is illegal and that is that, you want to change it, run for office and get that done, otherwise, realize that if something is illegal it is wrong and the fact that he was caught is just and his punishment will be justice. i don't think we should pay sales tax on a car when we dont own it yet only to turn around and pay new taxes on it every year but we have to because its law...this country is founded, was founded on laws to protect and to make sure everyone has a chance, when people break the law they are taking a chance and have to suffer the consequinces when caught, bottom line

-- Posted by thisguy on Mon, Oct 19, 2009, at 12:35 PM

news across....socialism? you say your proud to be american yet your answer to our problems is socialism? news flash, we elected a socialist president...you can come home.

and by the way....genius, the spike in all raw material prices a few years back was NOT due to manufacturing moving to china, it was in fact that chaina was offering unheard of prices for scrap metals and after we sold everything to them for refinement we had no choice but to buy it back, manufacturing has been overseas for decades, nike, levis, mattel...its not a new trend and its capitalism that enables these companies to do that. yea china has it going on, as long as you keep you mouth shut, dont have more than two kids and never....ever talk against the government, wow, sounds like a grand place to live compared to this free market, fredom of speech, freedom loving cess pool we have here.

-- Posted by thisguy on Mon, Oct 19, 2009, at 12:29 PM

Legalities aside, would anyone still be upset had he been making beer,wine or distilling spirits?

-- Posted by What the f...... on Sat, Oct 17, 2009, at 7:24 AM

Oklahoma Reader- you are concerned about this family being ripped apart by "Conservatives". This case has nothing to do with IF marijuana should be legalized. The fact is....it is not, and we ALL know it isn't. This guy admitted to growing it for years and using it even longer. The probability of him stopping now is not likely.

Everyone that posts sympathetic comments for this guy- Where is your sympathy for his kids? What kind of example is he setting? It is OK to break the laws you don't like? He manufactored it on his property, if he or his wife cared about their family at all they would have considered this.

Your 33...Grow the hell up! Putting children at risk is selfish. If you are going to crime, do the time and quit your crying.

-- Posted by r_u_kidding? on Fri, Oct 16, 2009, at 3:27 PM

news across,

You are just tooooo funny! Let us know if you ever get tired of having all of that money...lol

-- Posted by Gumby on Wed, Oct 14, 2009, at 4:32 PM

Well Gumby,

I do enjoy a very healthy social life here in Oz, and I thank the Good Lord for having blessed me with so many good friends and family both here in Australia and back home in the States.

However, I do lead a very multifaceted life and have many interests that keep me pretty busy. Despite all of that, I always make sure to set aside time for weighing in on issues of concern no matter where those concerns lead me.

Thank you for your interest in my life and for your kind words.

-- Posted by news across on Wed, Oct 14, 2009, at 1:20 AM

No moody, I am just some old man (is mid-50's old?} sitting in my home-office in Sydney banging away on a keyboard posting on specific forums.

-- Posted by news across on Tue, Oct 13, 2009, at 2:44 PM

See, I just thought you were some old man, in a lil dingy apartment banging away on a food crusted keyboard on every blog he could find. :)

-- Posted by moodyblue on Tue, Oct 13, 2009, at 2:31 PM

thisguy,

I am proud of both my Counties, and like you, I am hoping for the best for the USA.

I would like to correct you on one subject you mentioned...our problem in the USA is not that we sold raw materials to the Chinese, but rather that we exported our manufacturing base to them.

As to their being communist...well they seem to be doing pretty well given they have had the fastest growing economy in the World for years now. Maybe we should try a little of that socialism in America...after all, capitalism sure doesn't seem to be working out too well.

-- Posted by news across on Tue, Oct 13, 2009, at 2:18 PM

moodyblue

I will be very happy to comply with your request for information as soon as you state your full name, first, middle and last name, your exact date of birth, your address, place of birth, what schools you attended, year you gradated from high school, both parents name, birth dates and address(es), your social security number, your last 2 previous employers names, addresses, dates of employment, reasons for leaving, and your current employer's name and address, your immediate supervisor's name, address and home phone number...

...what's that you say? ...that's personal information you would rather not post...oh gee...I guess that is a little unfair to ask someone to start posting personal information on this forum.

As to my connection to Marshall...I am from Marshall and so were 5 generations of my family...not that its any of your business.

As to the topic we were discussing once upon a time...you are referring to charges...I am referring to sentencing...2 completely different things. Feel free to scroll down for my comments on that.

As regards being compelled to answer questions and to give evidence against ones self, I will refer you to the the 5th Amendment of our Constitution. You were wrong then and your wrong now.

-- Posted by news across on Tue, Oct 13, 2009, at 1:41 PM

News Across..

You seem to think that the more you right the more correct your statements are. It is a fact that if your in possession of an amount of any illegal substance that exceeds the amount that would or is normally used for personal use it can and is used in court. I still remember your comments on DWI when you stated that evidence of refusal cant be used in court

I still stand by my statements that you dont know squat about law here in the United States..Pease post the name of the law firm you were a paralegal for so everyone can be sure to avoid it.

Also I have a question

Why living in Australia do you even care about what happens in Marshall or Saline County. Why do you post comments directed to criminals in OUR community that rob, steal, manufacture drugs, rape and molest children not to cooperate with OUR local law enforcement.

Just wondering

-- Posted by moodyblue on Tue, Oct 13, 2009, at 9:12 AM

snooty pooty kangarooty news across, you really are a proud american arent you! and i can give you a few reasons they should care, because this country will never become a third world country, the PROUD american that inhabit her soil will see to that. and if i remember correctly, we were oh so happy to sell all of our resources to china, like steel and scrap, and i might not be on the legal side of knowledge but i am on the industrial side and that did nothing but spike all prices in items containing steel, nickel, coke and aluminum, thats not much is it. so keep selling the to the chinese and be cheery mate that you are supporting the rise of a communist nation that in turn cares nothing about you! i was miking a joke about australia, i had no problem with them at all and still don't. i have a problem with someone that uses trhree paragraphs to defend their patriotism when it turns out they might only be trying to convince themselves...not us. please dont comment back with your figures from the rainbow coalition or the naacp or the aclu or the un, because as soon as this country decides to turn this bus around and end this bleeding heart field trip we have been on then you might need all the inspiring topics you can think of to talk about under the moon, down under. thanks for you participation.

-- Posted by thisguy on Tue, Oct 13, 2009, at 9:11 AM

WonderJim

The British began sending prisoners -- primarily Irish political prisoners convicted of petty, trumped up charges -- to Australia beginning in 1787 after they could no longer send the prisoners to America (since Britain at that time recognized American independence). You may be, like so many other millions of Americans, descended from those British convicts that were all sent to America prior to 1787.

Interestingly enough, most the Irish political prisoners sent to Australia would typically escape several months after their arrival since their were no prison walls to contain them and Australia is the size of the Continental USA. Many of the convicts, as in America, went on to amass large fortunes and became outstanding Australian leaders.

The sending of prisoners to Oz ceased in the 1850's, and since then Australia has become the new melting pot of the World with immigrants moving here from all corners of the Globe. Today Australia remains one of the most culturally diverse Nations in the World and is also one of the wealthiest Nations in the World. Its year round, temperate climate, wide open spaces, pristine wilderness, and almost unlimited natural resources continue to attract some of the Worlds best talents and skills which assures Australia's continued growth and prosperity for many years to come. I feel very fortunate to live in Australia and to include Australia as one of the 2 Nations in which I have citizenship.

-- Posted by news across on Mon, Oct 12, 2009, at 9:38 PM

thisguy,

The burden of proof falls entirely upon the State. The defendant does not have to prove anything at all. The defendant is, in fact, presumed innocent until proven guilty. As far as what the judge can use in determining sentencing in the case of of a guilty verdict, he has a wide range of options.

As far as what you think (or know) about Australia, it matters not to me...I am an American, and I don't know of any Aussies that care what you, me, or any other American thinks of them. After all, They are a sovereign Nation, their economy is fine (no recession in Oz). In addition, everyone is covered for medical care here (at no direct cost to the patient), taxes are as low as in America, relations with the World's new economic leader (China) are excellent and the Chinese are busy buying up lots of Australia's natural resources which the Aussies are happy to sell to them (Aussies have the World's largest supply of uranium and natural gas). Business is good in Australia! They have pulled all their troops out of Iraq and are in the process of pulling the last, few remaining troops out of Afghanistan, and peace is at hand. The UN report on quality of life rates Australia as the second best country in the World to live in, and unlike our Country (the USA), Australia is in no danger of becoming a 3rd World country any time soon. So they really don't care what you think of them. The fact is that while Australia is one of Americas closest allies (for now) and has always supported America -- even when other countries are turning their backs on America -- the Aussies really don't need America at all (Australia is a member of the British Common wealth and its sovereignty is guaranteed by the full might of the Commonwealth and the EU). So why would any Aussie care what your opinion of them is?

-- Posted by news across on Mon, Oct 12, 2009, at 8:46 PM

well well well news across, congrats on the independently wealthy thing. we are all so proud of you. a little bit of humble pie might take that growl out of your belly though.

i think moody's point is that when the amount of drugs in question exceeds a certain quantity then the law is made to assume that it is for distribution, not personal use. the law probably wont be able to prove that he was selling it, but he can't prove he wasn't. quite the conundrum.

and by the way, Australia has given us two goo reasons to not like them....Crocodile Dundee 1 and 2, i dont need to know anything else about them.

-- Posted by thisguy on Mon, Oct 12, 2009, at 7:03 PM

Gumby,

I feel quite certain you know little or nothing of Australia.

-- Posted by news across on Mon, Oct 12, 2009, at 5:19 PM

moodyblue,

well...heh...there you go again...

When you attempted to infer that I am not American...which you did...you were putting into question my interest and knowledge of everything American in an effort to divert away from a "debate" you had clearly lost.

As too hiring me...lol...you cannot afford me nor will you ever be able to afford me...nor do I have any need to work. Can you guess why I have no need to work? If you guessed that I am independently wealthy, you guessed correctly...for once.

As to your claim that 24 plants = commercial manufacturing...I blew that null hypothesis away in my 2nd comment and I refer you to same.

-- Posted by news across on Mon, Oct 12, 2009, at 5:17 PM

I'll say it, I don't like Australia!!..lol

-- Posted by Gumby on Mon, Oct 12, 2009, at 12:19 PM

A little hyper sensitive....Never did I question your citizenship or put down Australia. My statement was based on facts...The amount of marijuana plants can be used in court.

Nice resume..but I'm not hiring :)

-- Posted by moodyblue on Mon, Oct 12, 2009, at 9:31 AM

moodyblue

Well there you go again...

Actually, I am an American...but nice try.

I was born in the USA with roots that go back to our Colonial days (early 1700's}, I was raised in America, and have spent most of my life in America (over 45 years with only 7 years total in Australia).

I don't see how anyone can get more American than that...however...

...I served as an enlisted man in the US army during the last 2 years of the Vietnam war, stationed in Germany and in one of the most hazardous MOS's, helping to keep the Soviet Union from overrunning our European allies -- and did so beginning at the age of 17. I also graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in 1991, earning a BBA with double majors in Economics and Accounting. While there I also took 18 semester hours of law, including Constitutional law, business law, and criminal law and worked for over 7 years as a paralegal at a law firm in Nashville, TN. I may not be an attorney, but I did learn a few things about the law along the way.

As a natural born American citizen, my American citizenship cannot be revoked or taken from me under any circumstances -- short of treason which I would never commit -- nor would I give it up under any circumstances. I remain a life-long American...despite the fact that I am also an Australian citizen. We Americans do not check our American citizenship at the door when we emigrate to another country. In fact, I still maintain a residence in Independence, MO, and I continue to vote by absentee ballot in every Missouri/American election.

Perhaps it would serve you well to stick to the facts of the case rather than attempting to question my citizenship or my patriotism or my qualifications in law...or perhaps you have no argument related to the topic in the first place.

-- Posted by news across on Sun, Oct 11, 2009, at 11:35 PM

I think the amount of marijuana would be factual evidence. I'm having deja vu here. News Across you dont have a clue how the american legal system works..When it comes to law violations I think you need to stick to blogs in Australia

-- Posted by moodyblue on Sun, Oct 11, 2009, at 12:50 PM

moodyblue,

The defendant's statement was made in the spirit of voluntary cooperation with the police. In the absence of any factual, physical evidence to the contrary, it is reasonable to accept the defendant's word that it was for personal use. Would a reasonable person assume that 24 stalks of corn or 24 tomato plants or 24 bean stalks in a back yard garden are for commercial use? Its not likely. I believe the defendant is telling the truth.

-- Posted by news across on Sun, Oct 11, 2009, at 2:13 AM

We only know/think he was growing the marijuana for personal use because he says so........duh. Sure seems like there was alot of plants

-- Posted by moodyblue on Sun, Oct 11, 2009, at 12:16 AM

While I certainly support the legalization of marijuana for the purpose of personal use by adults above the age of 18, I never-the-less cannot help but point out that it still remains unlawful.

We all have an obligation to obey the law, no matter how wrong we may feel that law is.

However, having said that, perhaps its time the State legislature does the right thing and decriminalizes the growing and use of marijuana for personal use by adults.

In addition, if this individual is found guilty, I hope the judge will take into account that it was grown for personal use. Clearly, probation would be a just and sufficient punishment.

-- Posted by news across on Sat, Oct 10, 2009, at 10:01 PM

What the f......,

I've always said put it up to a vote just like the gay marriage issue, ALL OR NOTHING! Make it a Missouri Constitutional Admendment and let the votes fall where they may. If the people say it's okay, then as far as Missouri law, it will be legal. But if the people vote for it to be illegal, then all marijuana possession becomes a felony and no whining by either side! Are You Ready To Vote??

As far as the majority now, people vote to keep law makers in office that oppose marijuana. So through their law makers, the majority rules....???

-- Posted by Gumby on Sat, Oct 10, 2009, at 3:16 AM

I don't know Ryan Ulmer, but if all he was doing was what he said he was doing no way should his family be ripped apart, and he sent to prison. I feel sorry for him.

Any honest Libertarian believes these laws are a waste of tax payer money, and a violation of privacy. That includes Milton Friedman who was Ronald Reagans economic guru.

Most Liberals/Progressives believe the same.

That leaves alleged Conservatives holding the bag. What about it, bottom line would you want to send this man to prison, or financially ruin him if he truly did only what he said? Can we really afford to do that when the nation is in such dire straits.

If there are proven problems with child endangerment, all bets off, that is another matter.

-- Posted by Oklahoma Reader on Sat, Oct 10, 2009, at 1:44 AM

"but it's the law and the majority still rules."

I don't remeber ever getting to vote on it.

-- Posted by What the f...... on Sat, Oct 10, 2009, at 12:58 AM

What are you all whining about, it will all be plea bargained down to nothing anyway!

You could have 100 different arguements on things that should not be legal or illegal, but it's the law and the majority still rules.

-- Posted by Gumby on Fri, Oct 9, 2009, at 10:50 PM

I agree with cpcrazy21. There are far more beneficial places for our tax dollars to go than providing room and board for someone growing a little weed. Should (by their own admission), our last 3 pesidents get 5 to 15 as well.

The money and resources spent, and the damage (the legality not the substance) does to society is rediculous.

-- Posted by sparky207 on Fri, Oct 9, 2009, at 3:17 PM

for personal use should be legalized.....

-- Posted by cpcrazy21 on Fri, Oct 9, 2009, at 3:05 PM


Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration. If you already have an account on this site, enter your username and password below. Otherwise, click here to register.

Username:

Password:  (Forgot your password?)

Your comments:
Please be respectful of others and try to stay on topic.