On December 11, 2013, California Department of Justice (DOJ) agents assisted the Elk Grove Police Department with the investigation and arrest of 19 people suspected in a large scale indoor marijuana growing and cultivation operation.

The long, intensive investigation resulted in warrants served at 20 locations in which about 6,000 marijuana plants were recovered along with more than 180 pounds of processed marijuana.  In addition, $70,000 was seized.

Child Protective Services took nine children, ages one to 15,  into protective custody due to their hazardous living environment.  They were living in homes converted into grow operations and exposed to chemicals and possible mold.

“Twenty search warrants and 19 arrests all in one day is intense,” said Alan Barcelona, president of the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA) which represents DOJ special agents.  “Combining the efforts and expertise of state and local law enforcement is an effective crime-fighting tool.  These suspects put their children and their neighbors at risk.”

The suspects were arrested on felony drug charges, booked in the Sacramento County jail  and are expected to make their first court appearances today at 1:30 p.m.  

SUSPECTS: