CDFW wildlife officers assigned to the Cannabis Enforcement Program assisted partner agencies in coordinated enforcement operations targeting a large-scale methamphetamine conversion laboratory and illegal cannabis cultivation sites in Kern and Los Angeles counties.
Officers supported an investigation lead by the Kern County Sheriff’s Department involving a methamphetamine conversion operation co-located with illegal cannabis cultivation.
Seizures included 65 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, 85 gallons of liquid methamphetamine (with an estimated conversion yield of 596 additional pounds of crystal methamphetamine), five firearms, 1,499 cannabis plants and 50 pounds of processed cannabis. Two people were arrested.
The volume of liquid methamphetamine recovered represents significant distribution potential and underscores the scale of the operation.
In a separate cannabis-focused effort, wildlife officers and partner agencies served six search warrants targeting unlawful cultivation sites in Los Angeles County.
Enforcement totals included 8,947 illegal cannabis plants eradicated, 26 pounds of processed cannabis seized and three bottles of methamidophos recovered.
The recovery of methamidophos, a highly toxic restricted-use pesticide, highlights the environmental damage commonly associated with illegal cultivation sites, including contamination of soil and waterways and risks to wildlife and first responders.
CDFW remains committed to working with law enforcement partners to protect public safety and safeguard California’s natural resources.
