Full Notification

DATE/TIME: Tuesday, November 17, 2015 / 10:45 a.m.

INCIDENT: Search Warrant – Outdoor Marijuana Cultivation

LOCATION: 28211 Desert View Road, Apple Valley (Unincorporated area of San Bernardino County)

SUSPECT(S): #1- Alberto Martinez, age 46, resident of Fresno
#2- Sergio Inzunza, age 52, resident of Fresno

SUMMARY:
Members of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Marijuana Enforcement Team conducted an investigation resulting in the service of a search warrant at a residential property in the unincorporated area of Apple Valley. The location had a large outdoor marijuana cultivation occurring on the property. Investigators determined the marijuana cultivation operation was illegal and not in compliance with California medical marijuana laws and the County of San Bernardino ordinance prohibiting outdoor marijuana cultivation.

The investigation resulted in the seizure of over 1,200 marijuana plants, 250 pounds of recently harvested marijuana being processed for distribution, one illegal semi-automatic assault rifle and the arrest of two suspects. The large amount of marijuana found and other evidence seized at the location suggests the suspects had no intention of abiding by California’s medical marijuana laws or local ordinances relating to growing marijuana for medical purposes.

The two suspects, who were hired to work at the location, attempted to flee on foot when deputies arrived, but were arrested without incident and booked into the High Desert Detention Center. They were charged with Cultivation of Marijuana; and Possession of an Assault Weapon. Investigators identified several additional suspects tied to the growing operation. Charges against these suspects will be sent to the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office for review. Arrest warrants may be issued at a later date if charges are filed by the District Attorney’s Office. The County of San Bernardino has an ordinance prohibiting outdoor marijuana cultivations. The Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division will continue to enforce California marijuana laws as well as the San Bernardino County Ordinances regarding marijuana cultivation and distribution. Persons found to be violating state marijuana laws and/or county ordinances are subject to fines, prosecution and seizure of property.

Anyone with information regarding the above investigation or other illegal marijuana cultivations is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division at (909)890-4840. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.

Refer: Sheriff’s Public Affairs
Case/DR: 621500646
Phone No. (909)387-3700
John McMahon, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department