June 21, 2024 – Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office officials report that they recently assisted the California Highway Patrol with a failure to yield and a subsequent vehicle pursuit that entered Mariposa County. The pursuit eventually ended on Highway 140 near Indian Gulch Road in after the vehicle crashed and the driver fled. The driver was not located, however, over 200 pounds of methamphetamine were located inside the vehicle.
Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office Detectives began a follow-up investigation after this incident. Detectives and Deputies were able to serve a search warrant at an undisclosed location in Mariposa County connected with the vehicle. During the search a fully functioning methamphetamine lab was located. Approximately 1,000+ pounds of methamphetamine in different stages of completion was seized. This size lab was estimated to be capable of producing as much as 800 pounds of product per week. At this time, we can only share a few details as this investigation continues.
“This is a massive win for our war on drugs and specifically our war on methamphetamine. This is the largest lab I personally have experienced in Mariposa County. I am very proud of the investigative work on this case. We are not done and will continue to pursue those responsible.” – Sheriff Jeremy Briese.
The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the California Department of Justice for assistance in the laboratory deconstruction and scene processing and PARC Hazmat services for the effective clean-up. As well as CalFire for their scene assistance.
If you have any information about this or any other criminal activity, please contact our office at 209-966-3615 or submit a tip anonymously through our Sheriff’s App.
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