Investigation into Illegal Dumping Leads to the Discovery of Major Methamphetamine Laboratory in Antelope Valley; More Than 800 Pounds Seized
On Wednesday, June 23, 2026, investigators from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Narcotics Bureau and the Los Angeles Police Department, assigned to a multi-agency task force, dismantled a clandestine methamphetamine conversion laboratory located near 110th Street East/Ave M-8 in the unincorporated area of Lake Los Angeles. An investigation that began with a possible illegal dumping incident led to the discovery of a large-scale methamphetamine manufacturing and distribution operation in the Antelope Valley.
The operation stemmed from an investigation that began after Palmdale Code Enforcement Officers responded to a report of possible illegal dumping in the area. During the investigation, personnel discovered more than 800 pounds of methamphetamine, prompting a broader investigation that ultimately uncovered a sophisticated methamphetamine manufacturing and distribution operation in the Antelope Valley.
As investigators developed additional leads, task force personnel, who specialize in the identification, investigation, and safe dismantling of clandestine drug laboratories, responded to the location and safely secured the property. During the operation, investigators seized crystal and liquid methamphetamine, ultimately preventing a significant quantity of dangerous narcotics from reaching our local communities.
One male suspect identified as 22-year-old Alejandro Hernandez Gutierrez, from Mexico was arrested for 11379.6(a) HS manufacturing of a controlled substance. Following the operation, investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department obtained and served additional search warrants as the investigation expanded. The investigation remains ongoing.
The successful dismantling of the dangerous clandestine laboratory was made possible through exceptional teamwork and seamless coordination by the multi-agency task force. By removing this sophisticated drug manufacturing operation from our community, investigators eliminated a significant public safety hazard while disrupting the production and distribution of illegal narcotics throughout the area.
“This investigation demonstrates how what initially appeared to be a routine call for service quickly evolved into the discovery of a sophisticated criminal enterprise capable of producing and distributing large quantities of methamphetamine,” said
Narcotics Bureau Captain Bobby Dean. “It also highlights the unpredictable and potentially life-threatening hazards law enforcement personnel encounter while protecting the public.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Narcotics Bureau at (562) 946-7125.
Forwarded by:
Sheriff's Information Bureau
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
211 West Temple Street
Los Angeles California 90012
http://www.lasd.org
213-229-1700
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Robert G. Luna, Sheriff
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
