Ex-public defender indicted over drugs

MEDINA, N.Y. (WIVB) - A former public defender has been indicted on four counts of growing marijuana, using his home to grow and distribute marijuana, and possessing a weapon in furtherance of drug trafficking activities.

Thirty-six-year-old Adam Rissew of Medina was arrested in July after an eight-month long investigation into the sale and growing of marijuana in the Village of Medina.

Authorities raided his home on Catherine Street and seized over 60 marijuana plants, an unregistered, loaded Glock handgun, around three pounds of dried marijuana, scales, packaging, indoor growing equipment, and other drug paraphernalia. In addition, once authorities gained access to a safe in his home, they say they found three more guns, nearly 700 rounds of ammunition, and several large capacity magazines.

Rissew worked as a public defender with the Monroe County Public Defender's Office, up to the time of his arrest.

If found guilty, he could be sentenced to a maximum 20 years in jail for the marijuana-related charges, and the firearms charge carries a mandatory five-year sentence. He could also be fined up to $2,250,000.