On Wednesday, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Narcotics Enforcement Team served a search warrant at a home located on the 9100 block of E. Herndon Ave. in Clovis.
Inside of a detached garage located behind the home, detectives discovered live 33 marijuana plants along with 176 lbs. of harvested marijuana which was drying. Inside the home were 479 live marijuana plants and 508 clone plants that had not yet developed roots. In addition, four roosters used for fighting were being kept in pens behind the house. Liberty Animal Control now has the birds.
Detectives arrested 49-year-old Somsak Phouangkeo. He has been booked into the Fresno County Jail for two felonies of marijuana cultivation and possession of marijuana for sale. He also faces a misdemeanor count of animal cruelty.
Fresno County enforces a strict ban on all cannabis cultivation, both indoors and outdoors. Violation of the ordinance could result in several consequences:
1.Growers can be arrested on a felony charge.
2.Growers can face heavy fines starting at $1,000 per plant.
3.Property owners, including family members, can be fined too.
4.Very short timelines to appeal citations and fines.
5.Prop. 215/SB 420 compliance will not stop enforcement.
6.Additional fines, interest, legal fees and costs of abatement can be charged.
7.County can place lien on property for unpaid fines.
The Sheriff’s Office takes all tips seriously and encourages the public to report suspected marijuana grow sites. If you are aware of any type of illegal drug activity, report it anonymously by calling the Narcotics Hotline at 1-800-660-1086 or Email:
