BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Search warrants in Taft and Maricopa ended with the seizure of marijuana plants, processed marijuana, and a gun, as well as the arrest of five people.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office said on October 15, 2025, deputies from the Taft Substation with the help from members of KCSO High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) and agents from Fish and Game Wildlife served search warrants for marijuana cultivation in Taft and Maricopa.
KCSO said 2,843 marijuana plants, 2,501.5 pounds of processed marijuana, and one loaded gun were seized and five people were arrested.
All suspects were later booked into Lerdo jail.
KCSO said search warrants were served on the 100 block South Street in Taft, the 300 block of Naylor Avenue in Taft, and 2100 block of Brummett Way in Maricopa.
43-year-old Ignacio Chavez of Mexico was arrested for cultivation of marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, and maintaining a residence for sales.
29-year-old Luis SanchezRomo, 57-year-old Ignacio Nevarez, and 42-year-old Selvano Gomez, all of Mexico, were arrested for cultivation of marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, maintain a residence for sales, and conspiracy.
SanchezRomo was also arrested for possession of a zip gun and possession of a controlled substance.
27-year-old Francisco Tabares of Lancaster was arrested for cultivation of marijuana, possession of marijuana for sale, and maintaining a residence for sales.
Kern County Sheriff’s Office said they remain committed to protecting the communities and ensuring the safety of residents by investigating and dismantling illegal marijuana cultivation and distribution operations.
KCSO said in a release, “These types of crimes often contribute to broader public safety concerns and can negatively impact the overall quality of life in our neighborhoods.”