PORT CHARLOTTE — Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit detectives arrested three Port Charlotte residents after a search warrant was issued and located growing marijuana plants, four weapons, marijuana, cocaine, and numerous drug paraphernalia. Detectives served the search warrant at a residence in the 3400 block of Sunrise Trail at 10 a.m. Friday. The three occupants arrested were Lena Anna Vitale, 49; Francis Xavier Mortimer, 46; and 19-year-old Nicole Rochelle Barton.

Narcotics detectives located six marijuana plants growing on the lanai; 10 smoking devices; a metal grinder; digital scale; marijuana; plus a plastic baggie and two straws with cocaine residue. In Vitale’s bedroom, detectives located a 12-gauge shotgun, a .22-caliber rifle, a 9mm handgun and a loaded .38 firearm. Vitale is a convicted felon and not allowed to possess any weapons or ammunition. All three were transported to the Charlotte County Jail. Vitale, Mortimer and Barton were all charged with cultivation of marijuana, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Vitale was additionally charged with possession of firearms by a convicted felon, and possession of cocaine. Mortimer was also additionally charged with possession of cocaine. All three posted bond Saturday and were released. Vitale’s bond was $9,500; Mortimer’s, $7,000; and Barton, $4,500. Anyone with knowledge of illegal drug activity is asked to please call the CCSO Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).