More Than 3,000 Marijuana Plants Seized In San Bernardino County

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY (CBSLA.com) — Deputies Thursday announced the seizure of 3,389 marijuana plants from various communities in Phelan and Pinion Hills.

According to the San Berardino County Sheriff's Department, 14 search warrants were executed for outdoor marijuana cultivation at residential properties over the past two weeks.

Deputies said that all 14 locations were found to have large-scale cultivations, where marijuana plants were found growing in fenced-in areas known as "plywood grows."

A total of 2,008 marijuana plants, 55 pounds processed of marijuana, four firearms and two handguns were seized in various residential areas of Pinion Hills, authorities said.

Officials also said that over 100 fighting roosters were discovered at one residence in the area.

Deputies said that Wilfredo Moreno, Juan Romero-Arajo, Fernando Romero-Puga and Eloy Barrera Campos were arrested.

According to authorities, a total of 1,381 marijuana plants, 162 pounds of processed marijuana, one handgun, two rifles and stolen truck parts were seized from various residential areas in Phelan.

Officials said that Ramiro Zavala, Fernando Licea, Roberto Chavez, Leonardo Cazarez, Oliver Espinosa, Alex Lopez Guerrero and Daniel Ceja were arrested for their alleged involvement as well.

According to deputies, all of the operations were found to be illegally run and not in compliance with California medical-marijuana laws.

San Bernardino County has an ordinance that prohibits outdoor marijuana cultivations that are not contained within a secured structure, a press release states.

Those who are found in violation of state marijuana laws and county ordinances will be subject to fines, prosecution and seizure of property.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation or other illegal cultivation locations is urged to contact the Sheriff's Narcotics Division at (909) 890-4840.