Smith couple accused of hosting underage drinking party, growing marijuana
A Smith Township couple face several charges filed by township police, including corruption of minors, after allegedly hosting an underage drinking party at their home.
Danielle Marie Curler, 33, and Robert Allen Curler, 40, both of 385 Pleasant Valley Road, Bulger, also are charged with endangering the welfare of children after a 17-year-old Smith girl who reportedly attended the party never returned home and was found more than two miles away.
They are also accused of having marijuana plants growing in the basement of their home.
Chief Bernie LaRue said that his officers learned of the party after state police at the Washington station received an anonymous tip. There were reportedly 40 to 50 juveniles at the party along with adults.
When township police, assisted by Mt. Pleasant Township police arrived, officers saw about two dozen vehicles parked outside the home.
There were also several people outside the home.
When police entered the home, they smelled a strong odor of marijuana. Police said there were at least 32 juveniles in the home. Of those, at least 18 had consumed alcohol and eight more people between the ages of 18 and 21 also drank alcohol.
While processing them, two people came forward with four marijuana plants the Curlers were reportedly growing in the basement.
Danielle Curler reportedly told police she and her husband were aware of the large underage drinking party in the basement, which was for their daughter’s birthday.
While still at the house, police learned a girl who attended the party had not returned home. Police also received reports of a girl on Grant Street knocking on doors.
The 17-year-old was found about 2 1/2 miles away in Bulger.
She told police she did not remember leaving the party, but reportedly admitted to drinking alcohol. She was taken to Washington Hospital for treatment.
LaRue said the investigation is continuing into other alleged incidents that may have occurred during the party. Police plan to charge 26 partygoers with underage drinking.
Charges will be sent by summons from the office of District Judge Gary Havelka.