Press Releases

On July 8, 2020, deputies assigned to the Lake Elsinore Sheriff’s Stations Problem Oriented Policing Team received information regarding  possible illegal marijuana cultivation occurring in the unincorporated area of Riverside County, in the area known as Horsethief Canyon.  Deputies were advised of an odor of marijuana coming from a residence.  After further investigation it was believed there was an illegal marijuana cultivation site at the location.  

On July 8, 2020, at the direction of Sheriff Chad Bianco, deputies served a search warrant at a residence on Coyote Mesa Drive, in the unincorporated area of Riverside County, in the area known as Horsethief Canyon.  The residence was transformed using common building materials into an illegal marijuana cultivation site.  Approximately 430 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.  Riverside County Code Enforcement responded and determined the residence was uninhabitable. 

This is an ongoing investigation.  Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Deputy Yu 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.