On March 31, 2014, the Los Banos Police Department served four separate search warrants related to theft of utility services and indoor marijuana growing operations.
Police discovered elaborate marijuana growing operations at residences in the 400 block of Vine Street, 1700 Block of San Simeone Way, 600 block of Kensington Circle and the 100 block of North Santa Ana Street.
30-year-old Se Min Kin was arrested at the San Simeone Way home and 21-year-old Jesus Efrain Lopez-Felix at the North Santa Rosa Street location. The two suspects were charged with theft of utility services and marijuana cultivation. Kin and Lopez-Felix were both released after posting bail $20,000 bail.
“These types of large scale marijuana growing operations are a concern for public safety. They create fire hazards; in one case, we discovered wires melting at the service box.”
- Jason Hedden, Police Commander
Police seized 1,056 marijuana plants and over 17 pounds of processed marijuana with a combine estimated value of more than $1.6 million.
At this time we do not believe these marijuana growing operations are connected.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting or other crimes is encouraged to contact the Los Banos Police Department (209) 827-7070, extension “0” or Merced Area Crime Stoppers at 1-855-725-2420.
To leave an anonymous crime tip call 209-827-7070 Ext. 288. If you have access to a computer and the internet you can also leave an anonymous tip at the Police Department’s web page at www.losbanos.org. At the bottom of the “Contact” page simply click on the “report graffiti and other crime” link or visit the Merced Area Crime Stoppers by telephone at 1-855-725-2420, or at www.mercedareacrimestoppers.org
