BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Three suspects were arrested this week in a DEA-led multi-agency operation targeting the increased use of THC products by youth in Bakersfield, said police.
Three Bakersfield dispensaries were served search warrants in the operation: 1700 Niles Street, Suite B, 1222 Golden State Avenue, and 522 E. California Avenue.
Jose Jacobo, 28, Ashley Garcia, 19, and Chandler Landreth, 21, face charges related to possession of narcotics for sale. Drugs and cash were seized from March 11 to March 12 in an operation conducted by DEA Agents, BPD’s Narcotics Detectives, and CHP Officers assigned to the DEA Task Force.
Photo: Bakersfield Police Dept.
The operation was initiated after the departments received multiple complaints from residents over recent weeks related to the increased use and possession of THC vape pens by juveniles in Bakersfield.
Law enforcement found the following at the dispensaries:
35+ pounds of processed marijuana159 individual units of THC wax198 THC vape pens290 packaged THC edibles25 psilocybin-infused edibles$1,167 in cash
Photo: Bakersfield Police Dept.
Photo: Bakersfield Police Dept.Comment with Bubbles
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
Officials said the “Vape Surge Operation” targeted illegal marijuana dispensaries suspected of selling THC vape products and other cannabis-related items that are close to schools, daycare centers, public parks, government buildings, and other sensitive locations.
Police said detectives developed probable cause and served search warrants at several dispensaries. BPD’s Violent Crime Apprehension Team (VCAT), BPD officers, and the Special Enforcement Unit (SEU), investigators assisted and executed search warrants and seized the aforementioned products, including THC vape pens commonly associated with juvenile use.