Illegal Marijuana Cultivation 

February 13, 2026 – Riverside County Sheriff's Office officials report that in January of 2026, deputies assigned to the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station Special Enforcement Team received complaints from the community of Wildomar regarding possible illegal marijuana cultivation occurring within the City of Wildomar.

On February 5, 2026, deputies served a search warrant in the 35000 block of Amatista Avenue. The residence was transformed into a marijuana cultivation site.  Approximately 1,050 marijuana plants in various stages of growth were located and eradicated. The electrical system within the residence had been illegally altered, causing a fire hazard. Southern California Edison responded to the residence and estimated a loss of over $60,000.00 in stolen utilities, and disconnected service to the residence. Wildomar Code Enforcement also responded and deemed the residence uninhabitable. 

Guofo Chen, a 74-year-old resident of Wildomar, was arrested during the operation and booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center for illegal marijuana cultivation, possession of marijuana for sale, and felony utility theft. 

This is an ongoing investigation, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Deputy Hibbler at the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station (951) 245-3300.

As a reminder, "Community Policing" involves partnerships between law enforcement and community members.  Business owners and residents are encouraged to report criminal activity directly to law enforcement by calling Sheriff's Dispatch at (951) 776-1099, or by calling 911 if the matter is an emergency.

Reporting Supervisor: Sergeant Jarrod Meissen

File # WI260080046

Source: Riverside County Sheriff's Office