Detectives with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Narcotics Enforcement Unit have arrested 30 year old Jose Anguiano of Caruthers and 25 year old Jessica Torres of Caruthers. Both were issued arrest citations for multiple felonies, including drug possession and possession of drugs with the intent to sell.
Approximately two months ago, FSO narcotics detectives received tips from the public that a business named High Grade Products was involved in the sale of illegal drugs. The shop, located at 13397 S. Henderson Road in Caruthers, has been open for business since 2015. It was operating as a clothing store / head shop. However, detectives determined there was a fully stocked medical marijuana dispensary behind a closed door in the back of the shop. Under the guidelines of the Fresno County’s Cannabis Ordinance, such dispensaries are illegal to operate.
Around 9:15 am on Wednesday, detectives served a search warrant at High Grade Products. They found a dispensary filled with many different varieties of marijuana products. It included marijuana which could be smoked and eaten. There were candy gummies, lollipops, chocolate bars and more. Detectives found professionally packaged honey oil (a concentrated form of cannabis) and oil to be used in vape pens or electronic cigarettes. There were also asthma inhalers, which dispensed THC. All of these products were being marketed to deliver health benefits. In order to make a purchase, customers only needed to show a medical marijuana recommendation card. The shop offered daily discounts on certain products and had a very specific pricing structure. Detectives also located two handguns, cash and small amounts of a substance suspected to be cocaine inside the dispensary.
Also on Wednesday morning, detectives served a search warrant at a home on the 4000 block of Mountain View Avenue in Caruthers. This is the home where Jose Anguiano lives. He is the owner of High Grade Products. Detectives found marijuana plants being grown inside the house along with some processed marijuana.
Fresno County enforces a strict ban on all cannabis cultivation, both indoors and outdoors. This ban also applies to those holding medical recommendation cards. 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. Prop. 215/SB 420 compliance will not stop enforcement. 5. Additional fines, interest, legal fees and costs of abatement can be charged. 6. County can place lien on property for unpaid fines. The Sheriff’s Office takes all tips seriously and encourages the public to report suspected marijuana grow sites. If you are aware of any type of illegal drug activity, report it anonymously by calling the Narcotics Hotline at 1-800-660-1086 or Email:
