SQUAW VALLEY, (KMJ) – More than 1,300 marijuana plants, 18.5 lbs. of dry marijuana and 19 guns were seized by the Fresno County Sheriff’s Narcotics Enforcement Team, California Department of Fish and Wildlife and members of the California Army National Guard.
The bust was successful after three different search warrants were executed in Squaw valley.
Arturo Vasquez of Cutler, Toby Main and Mike Lopez – both of Squaw Valley – were arrested for felony cultivation of marijuana and possession of marijuana with intent to sell.
So far in 2016, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Narcotics Enforcement Team has eradicated 75 different grow sites, seized 61,000 marijuana plants, 831 lbs. of processed marijuana, 31 guns and arrested 39 people.
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:
Marijuana Plants and Guns Seized in Squaw Valley
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.
Those with legal licenses to grow can only have 6 mature plants per person in their possession. With 205 plants seized at just one location in this bust, the Sheriff’s Department estimates that’s enough for 58 years of use for a single medicinal user.
