News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 15, 2007
Contact: Mike Turner
Special Agent
Number: 303-705-7446

Sophisticated Marijuana Indoor Grow Seized in South Denver
Assault Weapons and Large Amount of Cash Seized

FEB 15 -- (DENVER) Jeffrey D. Sweetin, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Rocky Mountain Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Douglas County Sheriff David A. Weaver, representing the South Metro Drug Task Force (SMDTF), announced the February 12th seizure of a sophisticated indoor marijuana cultivation operation, $310,127 in cash and 21 firearms from a residence in Sedalia, CO.

The Colorado investigation resulted from the arrest of a Sedalia resident on drug charges by the Harrison County West Virginia Sheriff’s Office. A state search warrant for the subject’s residence in Sedalia was obtained. Items seized as a result of the search included a sophisticated indoor marijuana hydroponics operation containing 407 marijuana plants, marijuana cultivation equipment valued in excess of $30,000, cash, three vehicles, two recreation vehicles, one motorcycle and the mentioned firearms; three of which were assault weapons.

"The DEA considers this to be a significant investigation," said SAC Sweetin. "We sometimes forget about the dangers of marijuana, but this case brings to mind the serious nature and the detrimental effects of marijuana on the citizens of Colorado. It is especially noteworthy to recognize the substantial assets generated by this criminal organization."

There were no arrests made at the time of the search. However, state drug charges are expected to be sought against the occupants of the residence that was searched.

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