Sheriff’s Office Shuts Down Illegal Marijuana Operation on Lovers Lane in Hollister
HOLLISTER, CA — On Thursday, the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, served a search warrant in the 7000 block of Lovers Lane. The action was conducted as part of an investigation into an illegal marijuana cultivation operation involving approximately 2,000 plants.
When law enforcement arrived, two subjects camping along the brush line of the cultivation site fled on foot. Utilizing a drone operated by Sergeant Simpson, Deputy Miguel apprehended the first subject, and the second subject was located shortly after. Both individuals were arrested for multiple felonies associated with the cultivation operation.
During the search, investigators discovered that the operation was diverting water from Pacheco Creek using a generator-powered pump system. Law enforcement officers also recovered a .22 rifle and a large sum of unclaimed U.S. currency from the location.
The San Benito County Sheriff’s Office stated that California laws establish specific requirements for cannabis cultivation, noting that legalization does not permit mass cultivation outside regulatory frameworks. The agency stated that non-compliant operations impact the environment, water resources, neighboring properties, local residents, and public safety. The department indicated it will continue investigating illegal cultivation operations in coordination with state and local partners.
