TCSO seize over 20,000 pot plants in area busts
Detectives with the Tulare County Seriff’s Office T.A.G.N.E.T. (Tulare Area Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team) conducted operations Monday and Tuesday to eradicate illegal marijuana grow sites in Three Rivers and the Lindsay/ Stathmore area with the assistance of the Campaign Against Marijuana Planting Task Force.
In the preceding weeks T.A.G.N.E.T. detectives conducted overflights in the areas of Three Rivers and a creek in the outskirts of the Lindsay and Strathmore areas to look for illegal clandestine marijuana grow sites. During the overflight, Detectives located several large grow sites within those areas.
While eradicating the illegal grow sites, detectives found numerous chemicals, a large amount of trash and the diversion of the natural waterways in the area. They also located a camp site but were unable to locate any information on the identity of the suspects responsible for the illegal marijuana grow.
During operation near Three Rivers, 19,000 marijuana plants were eradicated and destroyed.
During the operation near the Lindsaystrathmore area, 2,000 marijuana plants were eradicated and destroyed and 80 pounds of processed marijuana were seized and destroyed.
The investigation into illegal marijuana grow sites is ongoing and anyone with information is encouraged to call the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 733-6218 or they can remain anonymous through our Tipnow Program at (559) 725-4194 or tcso@ tipnow.com.