Cannabis plants found outside state Capitol in Madison

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- There was an odd spotting outside the state Capitol in Madison Thursday: cannabis plants.

Shelby Ellison, a plant science expert at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, tells CBS 58 she determined cannabis plants were found on the Capitol grounds that "look purposely planted."

Ellison added it's unclear whether the plants contain THC or not. That's because it would have to be tested to determine whether it's hemp or marijuana.

Shortly after the revelation, the Wisconsin Department of Administration, that oversees the Capitol, was made aware of the situation.

"We do not have the expertise to confirm whether the plants were cannabis, but our facilities staff have examined the area and removed the plants."

Possession of marijuana remains illegal under state law, but the Dane County District Attorney Office will not prosecute minor possession cases.

State law requires a permit to grow and plant hemp.