Shortly before 11:00 am on Sunday, three men knocked on the door of a home located on the 7400 block of E. American Ave. in Fowler.
Once the resident opened the door, the men forced their way into the home. They were armed with guns and one was wearing a mask. They tied up the three victims they encountered at the property. The suspects ordered the victims to give them cash and also called out for a certain person by name, but that person was not home at the time. The suspects searched around the property for a short time and then left.
Around 12:15 pm, one of the victims called dispatchers at the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office to report this home invasion robbery. Deputies responded to the scene and interviewed the three victims, none of whom were injured. Deputies found three refrigerated box trailers on the property, which had their doors open. Inside deputies found approximately 100 live marijuana plants and clippings which were in the drying and processing phase. Since deputies are not sure how much marijuana was initially there, it is unknown if the suspects stole any marijuana.
Property crimes detectives and narcotics detectives were both called to the scene to begin an investigation. No arrests have been made as of yet.
Anyone who has additional information on this case is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600-3111. You may also call Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867. You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
Under California’s Prop 64 law, a person 21 year or older is allowed to grow a maximum of six marijuana plants inside a private residence or accessory structure that is fully enclosed and secure.
Fresno County enforces a strict ban on all cannabis cultivation where more than six plants are present. Violations could result in several consequences:
1. Growers can be arrested.
2. Growers can face heavy fines starting at $1,000 per plant.
3. Property owners, including family members, can be fined too.
4. Prop. 215/SB 420 compliance will not stop enforcement.
5. Additional fines, interest, legal fees and costs of abatement can be charged.
6. 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: