Press Releases

On July 10, 2020, deputies assigned to the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Stations Problem Oriented Policing Team received information regarding possible illegal marijuana cultivation occurring at a residence in the city of Lake Elsinore. Complaints were received from concerned citizens regarding the property, an investigation was conducted, and it was determined to be an illegal indoor marijuana cultivation site. 

On July 10, 2020, at the direction of Sheriff Chad Bianco, deputies served a search warrant at a residence on the 34000 block of Deergrass Way in the city of Lake Elsinore.  The residence were transformed using common building materials into illegal marijuana cultivation rooms. Approximately 857 marijuana plants in various stages of growth were located inside the residence. The electrical system within the residence was illegally altered causing a severe fire hazard.  Southern California Edison Company responded to the residence and turned the power off due to the illegal wiring throughout the residence. Southern California Edison determined over $15,000 in electricity was stolen in the past 5 months.  Lake Elsinore Code Enforcement along with Building and Safety responded and determined the residence was uninhabitable.   

This is an ongoing investigation.  Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Deputy Talbott at the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station (951) 245-3300. 

As a reminder, "Community Policing" involves partnerships between law enforcement and community members.  Business owners and residents are encouraged to report criminal activity directly to law enforcement by calling Sheriff’s Dispatch at (951) 776-1099, or by calling 911 if the matter is an emergency.