Dozens Arrested In Outdoor Marijuana Cultivation Search Warrant

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY (CBSLA.com) — Officials announced the conclusion of an investigation Wednesday with the arrest of dozens of suspects for their alleged involvement in outdoor marijuana cultivation operations.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, various properties throughout the high desert suspected of having large outdoor marijuana cultivation operations were searched over the course of three weeks.

Deputies said 21 search warrants were conducted at residences throughout Newberry Springs, Hinkley, Lucerne Valley, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Phelan and Pinion Hills.

Each property contained large-scale outdoor marijuana cultivation, officials explained.

As a result of the search, 1,651 marijuana plants, 1,194 pounds of processed marijuana, four concentrated cannabis extraction labs, concentrated cannabis wax and over 50 pounds of marijuana seeds were seized, deputies said.

According to deputies, the plants were growing in unsecured fenced in areas, known as plywood grows, which were not in compliance with California medical marijuana laws.

Additionally, 22 firearms, methamphetamine, currency were seized. A stolen motorcycle was also recovered.

In total, 56 suspects were arrested as a result of the search warrants.

San Bernardino County has an ordinance prohibiting outdoor marijuana cultivation.

Anyone with information regarding these crimes is urged to contact detectives at (800) 782-7463.