Rock Island, Ill. – A federal grand jury has charged Charles William Cole, 52, with the manufacture of 100 or more marijuana plants on or about July 5, 2011.

Cole, who lived in a treehouse in the backyard of a residence at 15806 Route 84, East Moline, Ill., was arrested on July 5, 2011, on state charges by the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office prior to the case being transferred to federal court in cooperation with the Rock Island County State’s Attorney’s Office. Cole remains in law enforcement custody.

If convicted, the offense carries a sentence of 10 years to life in prison.

The charges were investigated by the Rock Island County Sheriff’s Office, the Illinois State Police, and the Quad City MEG. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. McCoy.

Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is merely an accusation; the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.