RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENTSheriff Chad Bianco |
| Press Release: | Illegal Marijuana Grow Operation |
| Station Area: | Lake Elsinore |
| Written Date: | November 15, 2019 | Time: | 2:30 PM |
| Incident Date: | November 4, 2019 | Time: | 3:30 PM |
| Incident Location: | 39000 Block of Calle De Campareno, La Cresta |
| Reporting Officer: | Sergeant Glenn Warrington |
| File Number(s): | F193170038 |
Details:
At the beginning of November, deputies assigned to the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station received complaints regarding possible illegal marijuana cultivation occurring within the La Cresta community, Riverside County.
On November 14, 2019, deputies served a search warrant in the 39000 block of Calle De Campareno. Approximately 1700 marijuana plants in various stages of growth were located and collected. In addition, the electrical system within the residence was illegally altered causing a severe fire hazard and theft of utilities. The estimated theft of utilities for the last six months is going to be up words of approximately $60,000. The entire residence was turned into an illegal marijuana cultivation.
While making announcements regarding the service of a search warrant, two female individuals fled out the rear of the residence and were detained. They were subsequently arrested for maintaining a drug house, illegal marijuana cultivation, and theft of utilities.
Meiyun Zhou, 38-year-old female resident of La Cresta, was arrested and booked into Cois Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta.
Xiao Mei Chen, 22-year-old female resident of Corona, was arrested and booked into Cois Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta.
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Meiyun Zhou | Xiao Mei Chen |
Edison Company responded out to the residence and turned the power off to the residence due to the illegal wiring throughout the residence. This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Deputy Meissen at the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Station (951) 245-3300.
Citizens may also submit a tip using the Sheriff's CrimeTips online form.
The Riverside County Sheriff's Department is seeking applicants for Deputy Sheriff, Deputy Sheriff Trainee, Correctional Deputy, Sheriff's 911 Communications Officer, and other employment opportunities such as clerical and support positions. If you are interested in a career with us, please apply at www.joinrsd.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD |