On April 3rd, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Narcotics Enforcement Team served three separate search warrants related to marijuana cultivation.
Two of the searches occurred on the 20000 block of Auberry Road, east of Friant. The other location was on the 1700 block of Dearing Ave. in the city of Fresno. A total of 5 hot houses, one back yard grow and a garage converted into a starter room were being utilized to grow the marijuana on a cycle to allow at least 3 to 4 harvests a year. Detectives removed and destroyed a total of 1,085 marijuana plants.
Detectives arrested seven people and booked them into the Fresno County Jail. They face felony charges of growing marijuana and intent to sell marijuana. Three of the suspects are from Florida and detectives learned they were in the Central Valley strictly to grow marijuana for profit. This investigation is ongoing and is believed to be connected to other states.
Fresno County enforces a strict ban on all cannabis cultivation, both indoors and outdoors. Violation of the ordinance could result in several consequences:
1.Growers can be arrested on a felony charge.
2.Growers can face heavy fines starting at $1,000 per plant.
3.Property owners, including family members, can be fined too.
4.Very short timelines to appeal citations and fines.
5.Prop. 215/SB 420 compliance will not stop enforcement.
6.Additional fines, interest, legal fees and costs of abatement can be charged.
7.County can place lien on property for unpaid fines.
If you are aware of illegal drug activity, report it anonymously by calling the Narcotics Hotline at 1-800-660-1086 or Email:
