By F. Scott Faulkner
Ventura, CA – A months-long investigation led to the arrest of four men suspected of operating a large-
scale illegal marijuana cultivation operation.
Investigators identified Brent Kennedy, 34, of Simi Valley, as a
key figure in the operation, along with Reece Clark, 5e, of Acton; Jason Zhikarev, 34, of Simi
Valley; and Jake Burton, 38, of Santa Clarita.
According to Ventura County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Sgt. Dan Ashmore, in November
2024, narcotics detectives received “information about multiple residential properties being used
for illegal marijuana cultivation.”
On February 20, detectives executed search warrants at six properties linked to the
suspects. Investigators found “over 1,700 actively growing marijuana plants, 45 pounds of
processed marijuana, seven ounces of concentrated cannabis, six pounds of psilocybin
mushrooms, more than 300 opiate pills, and 26 firearms.”
Detectives also seized a significant amount of cash suspected to be proceeds from drug sales. Two Simi Valley residences were
deemed uninhabitable due to extensive modifications made for cultivation.
Kennedy, Clark, Zhikarev, and Burton were arrested and booked into the Ventura County Jail on
narcotics, weapons, and conspiracy charges. Kennedy posted $20,000 bail, while Clark,
Zhikarev, and Burton each posted $50,000 bail.
Photo(s): Courtesy of VCSO
