On Thursday and Friday, September 20th and 21st, 2018, starting at approximately 7:00 a.m., investigators from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department - Marijuana Enforcement Team partnered with members of the U.S. Forest Service and the Department of Fish and Wildlife in a collaborative effort, as part of the CAMP (Campaign Against Marijuana Planting) program, to investigate illegal marijuana grows in the San Bernardino National Forest. During the operation, investigators located three large plots of marijuana growing in the forest near Marble Canyon, Arctic Canyon and East Fork Canyon. The areas are located several miles north of Big Bear Lake and south of Lucerne Valley. Camping equipment and large amounts of trash were also located, showing the suspects had been living near, and caring for, the large marijuana grows.
Investigators believe members of illegal drug trafficking organizations are responsible for the marijuana grows found in the National Forest. The suspects cleared away the natural foliage to facilitate the cultivations, which causes irreversible damage to the forest. Natural water sources, such as creeks and streams, serve as a water supply for the grow sites. Often times, the suspects will use fertilizers and toxic pesticides, some of which have been outlawed in the United States. These substances can seep into the ground and contaminate the ground water and impact natural wildlife.
Investigators seized 10,204 marijuana plants from the illegal grow sites. There is no suspect information at this time.
Law enforcement officials caution the public to remain alert when hiking in the forest. Some people use marked trails, while others wander away from these trails. Should you discover a marijuana cultivation while hiking in the forest, get out of the area and contact law enforcement immediately.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation or is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division at (909)387-8400 or NARC-MET@sbcsd.org. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline online.