Special Investigations Unit closes illegal marijuana vendor event
DATE / TIME: Wednesday 04/27/2022 @ 1722 hours
CASE #: 22-043123 & 22-043149
LOCATION: 1608 W. Mission Bl, Pomona, CA
CRIME: H&S 11366 – Operating and Maintaining a Drug House
PC 594(B)(1) – Felony Vandalism
VICTIM #1: State of California (HS 11366)
VICTIM #2: City Of Pomona (PC 594(B)(1)
SUSPECT #1: Withheld Pending Further Investigation (HS 11366)
SUSPECT #2: Martinsito Penalugo 34-yearold resident of Coachella (PC 594(B)(1) )
UNIT: Special Investigations Unit - Investigative Services Division
Major Crimes Taskforce – Investigative Services Division
NARRATIVE:
In early April 2022, members of the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) began conducting an investigation into a large “swap meet” style marijuana vendor event at the above location. SIU officers learned of the event after the Pomona Police Department received several calls for service in reference to subjects loitering in and around an abandoned business.
During the on-going investigation, SIU officers observed social media posts advertising the event. The sales of marijuana in the City of Pomona is restricted to businesses who obtain the necessary licenses and permits through the City of Pomona and the State of California.
On 04/27/2022 at approximately 1722 hours, SIU Officers arrived at the business with a signed search warrant. During the service of the search warrant SIU Officers recovered (4) firearms and over 300 pounds of marijuana / marijuana product.
At the conclusion of the search warrant it was learned that a patron from the illegal dispensary vandalized a police unit. Video surveillance was obtained which showed the crime. The patron was observed loitering in the area a short time later and arrested for felony vandalism.
City of Pomona Code Enforcement “red tagged” the building rendering it unsafe.
The Special Investigations Unit wants to ensure the community that they prioritize their investigations and address all crimes from city violations to serious, violent felonies.
UNIT:
The Pomona Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is a specialized unit that typically works undercover. The SIU is responsible for conducting major narcotic / gang investigations and as well as fugitive apprehension.
The SIU was assisted by members of the Major Crimes Task Force (MCTF) as well as the Patrol Division.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Pomona Police Department at 909-620-2085.If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call "Crime Stoppers" by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.
Written by:
Corporal Paul Lucifora
Special Investigation Unit (SIU)
Address/Location
Pomona Police Department
490 W Mission Blvd
Pomona, CA 91766
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 909-620-2155
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