NICE — Proactive field enforcement efforts by the Sheriff”s Narcotics Task Force on Friday resulted in two felony arrests and the seizure of marijuana, Public Information Officer James Bauman reported.
At approximately 4:40 p.m. Friday, narcotics detectives spotted a white Pontiac being driven by 34-year-old Ronald James Blesio on Butte Street in Nice. According to Bauman, the detectives knew Blesio had a $40,000 warrant for his arrest for possession of marijuana for sales, possession of a dangerous weapon and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Narcotics detectives stopped the Pontiac and contacted Blesio and his passenger, 44-year-old Cathi Larae Larson of Lakeport, Bauman said. When detectives approached the vehicle, they immediately noticed the back seat of the car was filled with numerous live marijuana plants. Blesio was arrested for the warrant and Larson was detained.
Further investigation revealed that neither Blesio nor Larson possessed a medical recommendation for the marijuana. Larson told detectives they were moving the marijuana plants for a relative but refused to say where they went to pick up the plants. Larson was arrested as well.
During a search of the vehicle, detectives located a bag of processed marijuana concealed in the glove box and other items used for the cultivation of marijuana. A total of 165 marijuana plants were seized from the car.
Blesio and Larson were both transported to the Lake County Hill Road Correctional Facility. Blesio was booked for possession of marijuana and the outstanding arrest warrant. Larson was booked for marijuana cultivation and possession of marijuana.
Bauman added, “The Sheriff”s Narcotics Task Force will continue its efforts to eradicate drugs from the communities of Lake County and seize the suspected profits of drug trafficking for asset forfeiture whenever possible.”
Anyone with information that can assist the Task Force with this effort is encouraged to call the anonymous tip line at 263-3663.
