TAMPA, Fla. — A Hillsborough County Fire Rescue lieutenant was arrested by Sheriff's Office detectives Monday after they learned he was using a machine to convert marijuana into cannabis oil.

  • Tavoris Allen, 36, admitted to owning marijuana, machine
  • Machine was a "botanical extractor"
  • More Hillsborough County stories

Detectives were called to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Station 26 in Plant City Monday after someone reported finding a botanical extractor operating at the station, according to the Sheriff's Office. 

Upon examining the device, detectives found two marijuana plants and homemade cannabis oil. 

Tavoris Allen, 36, admitted to detectives that both the marijuana and the machine belonged to him. He was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance.

Officials said Allen admitted the machine and the pot belonged to him. 

Medical marijuana is available in Florida but still illegal under federal law. But according to the Florida Statute, cannabis oil is a controlled substance and remains a felony. 

Allen's employment status with Hillsborough Fire Rescue following his arrest is not known.