Detectives from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Street Team obtained information reference an illegal marijuana grow operation in the 8700 block of West Los Angeles Avenue, in the unincorporated area of Ventura County, just west of the City of Moorpark. During the course of this investigation, detectives confirmed an active marijuana grow operation was in progress.
On July 1, 2021, Detectives executed a search warrant at the location. Detectives located an active illegal marijuana grow operation which consisted of several greenhouses, an irrigation system, and power supply. Detectives detained Antonio Estrada and Gary Rodriguez at the scene. The investigation revealed Gary Rodriguez and Antonio Estrada were co-conspirators in the illegal marijuana grow operation.
Detectives also obtained a search warrant for Gary Rodriguez’ residence located in the 6300 Block of Turfway Road, in the City of Moorpark. During the execution of the warrant, detectives detained Gerardo Rodriguez. During the search, detectives located additional evidence of illegal marijuana cultivation, weapons, and ammunition.
In total, detectives seized 450 marijuana plants, approximately 10 pounds of dried marijuana, 4 handguns, 3 rifles, 1 shotgun, and several thousand rounds of ammunition in various calibers. Based on Gary and Gerardo’s criminal history, they are both prohibited from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.
Based on the investigation, Gary Rodriguez, Gerardo Rodriguez, and Antonio Estrada were arrested for various narcotics and weapons related violations. All three subjects were booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility pending court proceedings.
Unregulated and illegal marijuana grow operations are dangerous to the end users and the environment. Often, banned pesticides and fertilizers are used to maximize plant growth and THC content. These pesticides and fertilizers are poisonous and can lead to health problems for humans or wild animals and contaminate the ground. The Sheriff’s Office routinely works with other local and state government agencies during these investigations to ensure that the The Ventura Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating reports of illegal marijuana grows throughout the county. Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal marijuana cultivation sites, greenhouse grows, warehouse indoor grows, and grows on local, state, or federal land. Residents should not enter grow sites due to a variety of risks including possibly armed site operators. Information can be reported to Ventura County Crime Stoppers or the Sheriff’s Narcotics Office at 805-383-8700.
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