In addition to 804 marijuana plants, investigators removed two large cargo nets filled with supplies and trash from the Skinner Creek site. (File Photo by ROTWNEWS.com)
By G.T. Houts
Angelus Oaks, CA - Illegal marijuana grows — like the one eradicated along Skinner Creek in the Angelus Oaks area — are becoming more and more of a threat to the forest ecosystems. Not only did drug enforcement officers eradicate 804 mature plants on August 7 but the suspects had been clear cutting areas of the San Bernardino National Forest, causing irreversible damage to the forest.
The grow was located in steep terrain off Highway 38 near Angelus Oaks. (Photo by San Bernardino County Sheriff)
In addition, the suspects — one who is now in custody — left behind trash, fertilizer and animal repellent at the grow site.
THE GROW
Investigators cut and confiscated over 800 mature plants in the budding stage and found camping equipment and an abundance of trash as evidence that several suspects were living within the site and caring for the marijuana plants.
The site was located in extremely rugged terrain approximately one half mile south of Highway 38 on the way to Angelus Oaks and re-routed water supplies to sustain their plants.
The plants were producing bud and ranged in height from 2 to 4 feet tall. They would have most likely been ready for harvesting in the next few weeks.
THE ARREST
Marijuana cultivation sites found within the forest areas have a negative impact on the natural resources and wildlife in the area. (Photo by San Bernardino County Sheriff)
With the assistance of the Sheriff’s helicopter, the suspect — 29-year-old Martin Juan Gomez from Selma — was apprehended and taken into custody after a foot pursuit.
Gomez, who is being held on $25,000 bail at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino — is scheduled for video arraignment on a felony marijuana cultivation charge at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The latest eradication operation involved law enforcement personnel from the U.S. Forest Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Campaign Against Marijuana Planting (CAMP) and the Sheriff’s Department Marijuana Eradication Team.
Persons with information are urged to contact Sheriff’s Narcotics at (909) 890-4840, or WeTip for anonymous information at 1-800-76-CRIME (7463). (254)