Calaveras Dismantles Large Illegal Marijuana Grow
July 19, 2024 – Valley Springs - Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office officials report that on Thursday, July 11th, 2024, at about 8:30 a.m., the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, executed a search warrant in the 5000 block of Lakeview Road in Valley Springs for an illegal marijuana cultivation operation.
The search warrant, authorized by the Calaveras County Superior Court and led by the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET), resulted in the eradication of an illegal marijuana cultivation site involving three large hoop houses, containing 1,008 actively growing marijuana plants. The estimated street value of the eradicated plants ranges from $252,000 to $403,200. During the investigation, deputies also discovered violations of pollution, littering, and the diversion of water near the site. The California Department of Fish & Wildlife biologists were on site to further investigate these violations.
Rogelio Barralan (Age 32 of Modesto) was cited for multiple charges related to the illegal operation. The case is still under investigation. Several agencies supported the operation, including the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Calaveras County Code Compliance.
The Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office is committed to its efforts to combat illegal marijuana cultivation and the associated crimes. To report any illegal marijuana activities, please call the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 209-754-6870.
Source & photos: Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office
