On June 24, 2021, at approximately 12:00 p.m., Detectives from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department's Narcotics and Gangs Division, with the assistance of Deputies from the Fallbrook Crime Suppression Team and members of the Special Enforcement Detail (SED), served a search warrant in the 38000 block of CA-79 in Warner Springs.

The warrant was part of an investigation by Sheriff's Detectives of illegal marijuana cultivation and sales in San Diego County.  Detectives seized 427 live marijuana plants at the Warner Springs location with an estimated street value of nearly $500,000 dollars. In addition, seven firearms and approximately $10,000 in U.S. currency was seized. 

San Diego County's Code Enforcement, investigators from the California Water Board, and San Diego Gas & Electric also assisted in today's operation.  They discovered numerous violations creating a dangerous situation, as well as environmental-related crimes happening on the property due to the illegal cultivation.  It is not uncommon for investigators to find dangerous chemicals, illegal pesticides and other hazardous materials used at unlicensed marijuana grow sites.  These dangerous materials may enter the local ground water supply and streams, creating environmental hazards.     

Marijuana cultivation sites such as these are often the source of products unsafe for human consumption, which are sold at illegal dispensaries in our communities.  Investigators believe the marijuana at the Warner Springs grow site was destined for unlicensed Southern California pot shops. 

The warrant follows community concerns about illegal marijuana operations near schools and residential areas.  We want to assure those we serve the San Diego County Sheriff's Department is listening to the community and recognizes the negative impact illegal marijuana operations have on our neighborhoods.

Source of information:  Sergeant K. Harris, San Diego Sheriff's Department