Five people were arrested and eight tons marijuana plants were seized during eight illegal grow raids in the Morongo Basin Friday. According to Sheriffs reports, 14 deputies and detectives executed search warrants at eight illegal outdoor marijuana grow sites in the unincorporated areas of Landers and the Desert Heights Community of Twentynine Palms, resulting in the seizure of more than 4,400 plants, totaling eight tons of marijuana. Investigators also located two firearms, ammunition, and anabolic steroids.
Carlos Avila, 40 of Sinaloa, Mexico; Octavio Perez, 25 of Guanajuanto Mexico; and Carlos Pulido, 23; Fernando Gonzalez, 36; and Christian Lopez, 25, of Michoacan, Mexico were all arrested for investigation of illegal marijuana cultivation and possession of a controlled substance while in possession of a loaded firearm, and were booked into the Morongo Basin Jail.
The Sheriff’s department states that future eradication operations are being planned as cultivation sites are identified and investigated. Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact Deputy Jose Ortiz at (760)366-4175. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact the We-Tip hotline at 1-888-78-CRIME.
