On September 11, 2014, the Los Banos Police Department and the Merced Multi-Agency Narcotics Task Force served two search warrants related to indoor marijuana growing operations in the City of Los Banos.
Officers discovered two sophisticated indoor marijuana growing operations; one at a residence in the 500 block of Birchwood Avenue and the other at a residence in the 500 block of Merlot Court.
Police seized 400 marijuana plants and half a pound of processed marijuana with an estimated street value of $280,000.00.
26-year-old female Ly Mai Duong, and 39-year-old male Kha Dinh were arrested at the Birchwood Avenue home for utility theft, illegal cultivation of marijuana and child endangerment. An infant child was taken into protective custody by Merced County CPS.
No suspects were found at the home in the 500 block of Merlot Court and the investigation is ongoing.
“We are not after people’s medical marijuana. These folks are running elaborate growing operations; they are stealing utility services and creating a major fire hazard.”
- Ivan Mendez, Sergeant
Anyone with information regarding these growing operations or other crimes is encouraged to contact the Los Banos Police Department (209)827-7070, extension “0” or Merced Area Crime Stoppers at 1-855-725-2420.
####
