Two illegal marijuana growing operations were dismantled in Mariposa County on Sunday, resulting in the destruction of over 3,000 plants and the seizure of seven firearms, according to the Mariposa County Sheriff's Office. The Mariposa County Marijuana Enforcement Team executed search warrants at two properties located on Hirsch Road and Old Yosemite Road.
The investigation led to the eradication of 3,173 illegal marijuana plants, the confiscation of seven guns, and the recovery of a small amount of methamphetamine. Sheriff's officials stated that these operations were not small personal grows but could be linked to cartel-style drug trafficking organizations that operate outside the law.
The seizure of seven firearms highlighted the dangers investigators say are associated with illegal grow sites. The raids underscore ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to combat illegal marijuana cultivation and associated criminal activity in the region.