Several Arrested After Reports of Gunfire at Illegal Cannabis Cultivation Site
FOREST RANCH, CA — “On July 29, 2025, at approximately 12:38 a.m., deputies from the Butte County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) responded to a report of shots fired in the 13000 block of Doe Mill Road, Forest Ranch.
Upon arrival, deputies conducted a protective sweep of the property and confirmed that no gunshot victims were found. However, during the sweep, deputies discovered an illegal marijuana cultivation and processing operation on the property.
The investigation revealed the presence of live marijuana plants growing inside two greenhouses, as well as an outdoor grow site located on an adjacent parcel. Additionally, processed marijuana in various stages of preparation was located inside the residence on the property.
Several individuals were detained at the scene. Detectives subsequently obtained a search warrant for the property.
During the execution of the search warrant, deputies located and seized 1,483 marijuana plants, processed marijuana, and two firearms.
At the conclusion of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested for illegal cultivation of marijuana:
- Caleb Anthony Swenson, age 38, of Chico
- Jose Sanchez-Nicolas, age 23, of Oaxaca, Mexico
- Antonio Aqino, age 26, of Bakersfield
- Hector Garcia-Viscara, age 41, of Mexico
- Margarito Garciamichel, age 56, of Sinaloa, Mexico
The investigation is ongoing, and additional details will be provided as they become available.”
