Press Releases

On December 12, 2019, at the direction of Sheriff Chad Bianco, personnel from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, California Water Board, and the Riverside County Code Enforcement served six marijuana cultivation related search warrants in the unincorporated county area known as Sage.  During the service, approximately 5745 plants and 10,988 seedling marijuana plants were eradicated and 230 pounds of processed marijuana was collected, for a total combined weight of approximately two tons.  A disassembled Honey Oil Laboratory was discovered, the apparatus was booked for evidence.  Nine firearms, (five rifles, three shotguns and a revolver), were collected for evidence.  One Kabota Tractor and six generators were also collected.

During the service of the search warrants, a total of approximately three liters of the highly toxic pesticide Carbofuran was located at two separate locations.  Riverside County Hazardous Materials responded to collect the pesticide.  Seventy-seven fighting roosters as well as spurs for fighting were located at one of the target locations, Riverside County Animal Control responded to assist with the investigation.     

The following suspects were arrested for Marijuana Cultivation, charges will be filed out of custody with the District Attorney’s Office:

• 42-year-old John Guerro
• 24-year-old Tiburcio Alonzo-Gonzales
• 33-year-old Jose Ugalda-Ruiz
• 36-year-old Jazmin Mondragon

The goal of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is to keep all of our citizens safe while also improving the quality of life for those residing within the community.  Marijuana cultivation negatively impacts the environment in many ways including diminishing and poisoning the water table and pesticides adversely affecting the health of neighboring residents.  The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has a zero-tolerance policy for these offenses.  If you suspect drug activity in your area, please contact your local Sheriff’s Station.  The Hemet Sheriff’s Station can be reached at (951) 791-3400 and the San Jacinto Sheriff’s Station can be reached at (951) 766-2400.