Wednesday, Jul. 01, 2009

Cartels caught growing marijuana

Last Thursday morning agents with MADNET (Madera County Narcotic Enforcement Team) and Fish & Game eradicated almost 9,000 marijuana plants, 500 of which were still in starter cups ready to be planted in one of two gardens tilled on private land Coarsegold.

The Madera County Regional SWAT Team led the raid that started early Thursday morning on Veater Ranch located off Highway 41 just south of the town of Coarsegold. The operation ended ay around 2 p.m. that afternoon.

Veater Ranch, which borders US Forest land, spans roughly 850 acres with some of the most breathtaking views. The region gained notoriety as being a popular destination point for trail rides.

But with 850 acres of open land, Madera County Sheriff John Anderson says it also provided opportunity for Drug Cartels to sneak in and plant their "grows."

Sheriff Anderson says the Drug Cartels who are fully armed pose a significant threat to the Mountain Community's way of life.

Fortunately no was hurt during today's operation, and no arrests were made.

Sheriff Anderson says MADNET discovered the two plots after receiving a tip from a vigilant citizen who spotted drip lines where they didn't belong.

Anderson urges anyone who sees or hears about suspicious activity to phone MADNET's tip line immediately. The number to call: 559-675-7776.