On March 23, 2021, deputies with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Marijuana Enforcement Team (MET) served two search warrants to investigate community complaints regarding illegal indoor cannabis cultivation in the Carlotta and Blocksburg areas. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the California State Water Board and the Humboldt County Environmental Health and HazMat Team assisted in the service of the warrants.

Two parcels were investigated during the service of the warrants. The parcels did not possess the required county permit and state license to cultivate cannabis commercially.

During the service of the warrant at a parcel in Carlotta, deputies eradicated approximately 3,173 growing cannabis plants. Assisting agencies also found two water pollution violations (up to $20,000 fine per day, per violation) and numerous hazardous waste violations as a result of oil spills and diesel fuel leaks near Cummings Creek.

During the service of the warrant at a parcel in Blocksburg, deputies eradicated approximately 8,412 growing cannabis plants. Assisting agencies also found one water diversion violation (up to $8,000 fine per day, per violation) and six industrial generators with oil spills.

Additional violations with civil fines are expected to be filed by the assisting agencies.

No arrests were made during the service of the warrant. The case will be forwarded to the DA’s Office for review.

Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.