CLEARLAKE >> A Tuesday fire that destroyed two structures in Clearlake led to the discovery of an illegal marijuana growing operation in one of the affected outbuildings, authorities reported.
Multiple agencies including the Clearlake Police Department and the Lake County Fire Protection District responded to the blaze on the 14000 block of Palmer Avenue. The fire spread had spread to properties located to the west and southside, Lake County Fire Chief William Sapeta explained Tuesday.
While conducting the fire suppression to one of the adjacent, shed-style structures, fire personnel contacted CPD after they found the marijuana operation.
“The Clearlake Police Department’s Investigation Unit was called to the scene and determined the property to be associated with an illegal marijuana growing operation, not in compliance with state law and local ordinances,” said CPD Detective Ryan Peterson.
The property also had equipment and chemicals indicative of the growing of marijuana, he added.
After the Lake County Superior Court authorized a search warrant, authorities entered the property and found approximately 107 growing marijuana plants inside.
All were seized for destruction, Peterson said.
“The outbuilding was equipped with wiring and lighting equipment determined to be in violation of state building codes according to the City of Clearlake building department,” he explained.
This investigation is ongoing with several potential leads of involved parties. Anyone with information on this investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Leonardo Flores at 707-994-8251 ext. 315.
The Clearlake Police Department reminds citizens that Proposition 64 allows up to six plants to legally be grown inside a residence. Under the City of Clearlake ordinance No. 197-2017 no more than six plants total are allowed to be grown on a property, whether indoors or outdoors, and a permit is required to cultivate marijuana outdoors for personal use.
Peterson explained that due to past trends and violent crimes connected with the illegal commercial growing of marijuana, the CPD “is continuing to take a proactive approach on enforcement of all state laws and local ordinances associated with the cultivation and sales of marijuana and marijuana associated products. We encourage the citizens of the City of Clearlake to contact the Clearlake Police Department or Code Enforcement if they observe any illegal activity in their neighborhood.”
For information on the permit process visit the City’s website at www.clearlake.ca.us or contact City Hall at 707-994-8201.
