August 24, 2023 - Calaveras County Sheriff's Office officials report that on Friday, August 18th, at about 8:00 a.m., the Calaveras County Sheriff's Office Marijuana Enforcement Team executed a search warrant at a residence on the 6000 block of Southpaw Lane in Burson as part of an ongoing investigation into illegal marijuana cultivation. The search resulted in the seizure of 615 marijuana plants, approximately 71 pounds of processed marijuana, and the discovery of unsafe and illegal electrical wiring.
Additionally, the team discovered CO2 tanks plumbed into the grow site. Carbon dioxide is often used to boost plant growth, but it can pose serious health risks when used improperly in enclosed spaces. High levels of CO2 can lead to a lack of oxygen, causing headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, and in extreme cases, loss of consciousness.
Illegal electrical wiring and CO2 tanks significantly increase the risk of fires, electrical accidents, and potential harm to first responders and the community. This highlights the importance of the Marijuana Enforcement Teams' purpose to locate, identify and eradicate illegal marijuana operations in Calaveras County.
During the operation, Raymond Xinli Wu, age 46 and resident of San Francisco, was present tending to the grow site and was cited for Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana for Sale, and Maintaining a Place for the Sale of a Controlled Substance. This case remains under investigation.
The Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with knowledge of illegal marijuana operations to call the Sheriff’s Office Anonymous Marijuana Tip Line at (209) 754-6870.
Source & photos: Calaveras County Sheriff's Office
