Full Notification

Public Information Release
August 17, 2012
Sergeant Steve Brooks, Public Information Officer


The service of a search warrant on Thursday by the Sheriff’s Narcotics Task Force, California Department of Fish and Game, California Highway Patrol and the Lake County Sheriff’s SWAT Team has resulted in one arrest, the seizure of marijuana and the recovery of a stolen vehicle.

On August 16, 2012 at approximately 7:15 am, narcotics detectives assisted the California Department of Fish and Game with the service of a search warrant for the person and home of 32 year old Matthew Ritchie Vines of Lower Lake. Also assisting Fish and Game, was Lake County Code Enforcement and Lake County Animal Control.

When Officers arrived, Vines and a female adult were detained without incident. During the search, officer’s located 180 marijuana plants that Vines admitted were his. Vines said he was a member of a marijuana cooperative. Fish and Game Officers investigating the case determined that Vines had built a large dam which blocked a seasonal creek. The investigation revealed that Vines was diverting water from the creek to water his marijuana plants. Numerous firearms were located in several different locations on the property along with a vehicle which had been reported stolen out of Texas. Vines had told officers that he and his female companion had recently moved from Texas to Lake County.

Also located on the property were 13 adult dogs and several puppies. The dogs did not have an adequate supply of water or food and appeared to be suffering from malnutrition. Lake County Animal Control Officers seized the animals and sought medical attention for them.

Vines was arrested for cultivation of marijuana, vehicle theft, possession of a stolen vehicle and water diversion. He was transported to the Lake County Hill Road Correctional Facility and Booked.

The Sheriff’s Narcotics Task Force will continue its efforts to eradicate narcotics from the communities of Lake County and seize the suspected profits of drug trafficking for the asset forfeiture whenever possible. Anyone with information that can assist the Task Force with this effort is encouraged to call the anonymous tip line at 263-3663