August 27, 2024 – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that on Friday, August 23, 2024, the Merced County Sheriff's Enforcement Team executed a search warrant in the 7000 block of East South Bear Creek in Merced and located a large-scale illegal marijuana operation. Our team found over 2,000 marijuana plants and more than 300 pounds of marijuana waiting to be processed into Butane Honey Oil (BHO).

In addition to the plants, they located a hidden lab inside a metal barn with high-end equipment valued at over $300,000. This lab was used to create concentrate oils and THC. The creation of these drugs is extremely dangerous due to the amount of isopropyl alcohol and butane that was being used. The explosive chemicals and poor electrical wiring posed a dangerous threat for an explosion to those working at the lab and anyone close by.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the local MAGNET Task Force were requested to process evidence and remove items from the lab. Great job by all involved for helping shut down this dangerous operation and keep our community safe!

Source & photos: Merced County Sheriff's Office