Full Notification

MEDIA RELEASE
Contact: Sergeant Greg Stark
Release Date January 23, 2020
Release Time: 1:15 PM
Indoor Marijuana Cultivation (Copperopolis, CA)

On January 21, 2020, the Calaveras County Marijuana Enforcement Unit served a search warrant at a residence located in the 100 block of Poker Flat Road in Copperopolis. Upon entry into the residence, it was immediately discovered that the attached garage had been converted into a marijuana growing room. Additionally, Deputies discovered that a device that burns Liquid Propane gas to create carbon dioxide was operating in the growing area. The garage and residence were immediately ventilated because of the high levels of CO2 being an immediate health hazard.
The investigation revealed that the converted garage also contained liquid fertilizers and chemicals. 185 Marijuana plants were seized from the location, along with other evidence. Calaveras County Code Compliance responded and posted (Red Tagged) the residence against occupancy due to numerous electrical and other safety hazards.
Investigators also discovered a hose had been routed from a growing area and into a storm drain to remove excess liquid. It should be noted that the residence in question is located on the shoreline of Lake Tulloch with an adjacent seasonal creek or drainage leading into the lake. The investigators will be coordinating with the appropriate allied agencies for possible additional charges.
No persons were arrested or present at the residence at the time of the investigation. The investigation is continuing.