W.C.S.O. investigation leads to marijuana grow fields and weapons Drug bust, first of its kind in Webb County
Written by admin, Apr 1, 2015, Comments Off
Courtesy Brenda Medina,
Laredo, TX (Webb County) – An on-going investigation by the Webb County Sheriff’s Office yields to more than $2 million dollars’ worth of marijuana plants.
Around 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, the Sheriff’s Office in a joint effort with Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Department of Public Safety, U.S. Border Patrol and the County and District Attorneys’ Office raided the Quintana Ranch located off of US-59. Upon arrival, authorities located two large marijuana plant grow fields that appeared to be well maintained, some of them measured up to 5 feet tall. A total of about 1,500 plants were found on the property.
One suspect was arrested, Alberto Juan Quintana, 32. An additional six weapons were also confiscated, including an AK 47 and .223 caliber assault rifle.
“I applaud the work of our deputies and assisting law enforcement agencies in locating and taking out these marijuana grow fields that these suspects were operating within the boundaries of our community,” said Sheriff Martin Cuellar. “Since this is an on-going investigation, we expect more arrests in this case and can ensure Webb County that these individuals will no longer be distributing drugs in our community, in particular to our youth.”
Intel information reveals that these drugs were being distributed primarily in North Laredo.
The estimated street value of these narcotics amounts to more than $2 million dollars.
“Today’s enforcement action illustrates the ability of law enforcement agencies to leverage their individual resources to work together and achieve justice. Homeland Security Investigations and the Webb County Sheriff’s Office are both committed to making our communities safer by conducting robust joint investigations,” said Deputy Special Agent in Charge, Mark Dawson, HSI Laredo.
Quintana is facing charges for Possession of Marijuana, Felony 1.
