Network of Illegal Marijuana Operations Busted in Josephine County

In a series of coordinated efforts, the Josephine Marijuana Enforcement Team (JMET) executed seven search warrants between August 29 and August 31, 2023, uncovering a network of illegal marijuana grow sites in various locations across the county.

The search warrants were carried out at the following addresses: the 3000 Block of Walnut Avenue and the 400 and 600 Block of San Francisco Street in Grants Pass, the 600 Block of Naue Way, and the 100 Block of Barron Circle in Cave Junction, as well as the 300 Block of Mary Harris Way in Grants Pass.

During the operations, law enforcement officials made a startling discovery. They seized and destroyed more than 5,700 marijuana plants and over 1,000 pounds of processed marijuana. In addition to the illegal drugs, authorities also confiscated 14 firearms and over $50,000 in connection with these properties.

Furthermore, all of the properties involved were found to have multiple water and/or solid waste code violations. These violations could potentially result in the criminal forfeiture of the properties, adding another layer of legal consequences for those involved.

One particularly disturbing revelation during the investigation was the use of human feces from septic tanks on one of the marijuana grow sites as fertilizer for the plants, highlighting the hazardous and unsanitary conditions associated with these operations.

As a result of the raids, several individuals were taken into custody. Sou Chio Saecaho and Mey Chong Saephan have been lodged in the Josephine County Jail on charges of Unlawful Possession of Marijuana and Unlawful Manufacturing of Marijuana. Meanwhile, Sage Moore and Charles Thoman were also incarcerated in the Josephine County Jail, facing charges of Unlawful Possession of Marijuana, Unlawful Manufacturing of Marijuana, and Unlawful Appropriation of Water.

The Josephine County authorities are continuing their efforts to combat illegal marijuana grow operations, emphasizing the importance of adhering to both state and local regulations in an industry that is constantly evolving.