Three Residential Marijuana Cultivations; One with Six Abandoned Dogs, Uncovered by Authorities

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HESPERIA – Three marijuana cultivations, one with six abandon dogs, were located in the City of Hesperia on Friday. The Marijuana Enforcement Team and Hesperia Station deputies served the search warrants at residential properties as part of their investigation into illegal marijuana grows. They were able to determine that all three properties had illegal grows not in compliance with state medical marijuana laws or City of Hesperia ordinance prohibiting the cultivation of marijuana.

Between the three homes, none believed to be related, over 900 plates were seized during the service of the search warrants. At the first location, located at 15635 Mission Avenue in the City of Hesperia, 88 plants were seized and harvested plants. Two were arrested, cited and released including Jose Morales, 55, of Hesperia and Sandra Duarte, 39 of Hesperia. At the second location (report DR#651700288), located at 15009 Lime Street in the City of Hesperia, 260 marijuana plants were seized. The suspect identification is pending and the criminal report will be forwarded to the District’s attorney office. At the third home, located at 16493 Allthorn Street in the City of Hesperia 640 plants were seized and 34 pounds of processed marijuana. In addition to that finding, six dogs— two adults and four puppies were located abandoned at the home. Animal Control arrived to take possession of the dogs. This location has a more elaborate interior grow operation, bypassing the electrical meter in order to steal thousands of dollars of electricity and conceal the high amount of electricity used, which could have tipped off authorities of the operation. Southern California Edison responded to secure utilities to prevent any safety hazards. No suspects were located, when identified, they will face charges of Cultivation of Marijuana, Sales of Marijuana, and Utility Theft.

Anyone with information regarding the above investigations or other illegal marijuana cultivations is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division at 909-387-8400. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.