News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 17, 2005

Seizure of Marijuana Plants in Cape Coral

seized marijuana

MAY 17--A joint investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Miami Field Division and Cape Coral Police Department resulted in the serving of search warrants at seven Cape Coral, Florida residences, the arrest of 10 individuals, and the confiscation of 622 marijuana plants which were being cultivated at the residences. Assisting in the investigation were the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and Miami Police Department. The subjects were charged federally with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 100 cannabis plants. Cape Coral Police estimate the marijuana has a street value in excess of $800,000.

Mark R. Trouville, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Miami Field Division, stated “The cultivation of marijuana will not be tolerated by DEA. Along with our counterparts at the Cape Coral Police Department and the City of Miami Police Department, we will continue to aggressively investigate and arrest those who choose to traffic marijuana and other illicit drugs in our communities." U.S. Attorney Paul I. Perez added “This investigation is an excellent example of law enforcement agencies working from coast to coast in Florida to dismantle an alleged illegal drug trafficking organization.” Acting Cape Coral Police Chief Rob Petrovich said, “It is unfortunate that narcotics and other illegal activities know no boundaries or borders between communities. However, neither does law enforcement when we work together as demonstrated today. Our thanks and appreciation on behalf of the Cape Coral Police Department and the City of Cape Coral for the assistance from the DEA, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the other participating agencies.”