California – On Friday, August 23, 2024, the Merced County Sheriff’s Enforcement Team conducted a raid on an illegal marijuana operation in the 7000 block of East South Bear Creek in Merced, California. The operation uncovered over 2,000 marijuana plants and more than 300 pounds of marijuana that was ready to be processed into Butane Honey Oil (BHO), a highly concentrated form of cannabis.
During the search, authorities discovered a sophisticated hidden lab inside a metal barn. The lab was equipped with high-end equipment valued at over $300,000, designed specifically for creating concentrated THC oils and other marijuana-based products. The Merced County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the extreme dangers associated with the production of these concentrates, particularly due to the large quantities of isopropyl alcohol and butane being used. These chemicals are highly explosive, and combined with the poor electrical wiring in the lab, they posed a significant risk of explosion, endangering the lives of those operating within the lab and anyone nearby.
In light of the potential hazards, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the local MAGNET Task Force were called in to safely process evidence and remove the dangerous materials from the site. Their expert handling of the situation ensured that no harm came to law enforcement personnel or the surrounding community.
The Merced County Sheriff’s Office commended all agencies involved in the operation for their efforts in dismantling this illegal and hazardous operation. Their quick action not only put a stop to the production of illegal drugs but also averted the potential for a catastrophic explosion that could have resulted in loss of life and property.
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