In eastern Kern County, 17 individuals have been arrested, and seven marijuana dispensaries have been shut down as part of a significant law enforcement operation.
The operation, conducted by the Kern County High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Task
Kern County Shuts Down 7 Marijuana Dispensaries in Crackdown
Force and the Kern County District Attorney’s Office, represents a considerable effort to combat the illicit distribution of marijuana in the region.
The operation involved the implementation of search warrants at each of the seven targeted marijuana dispensaries, resulting in their closure immediately.
The following dispensaries were shut down as a result of the operation:
Lights Out Wellness located at 1739 Poplar St.
Wicked Weed located at 2763 Sierra Highway
The Location located at 2613 Diamond St.
Mr. 5 Gramz located at 2665 Diamond St.
AV Wellness located at 2689 Sierra Highway
Plum Tree Collective located at 2873 Sierra Highway
CBD Plus located at 2753 Diamond St.
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Kern County Crackdown: 7 Dispensaries Closed, 17 Arrests
These closures are part of ongoing efforts by local authorities to combat illegal marijuana operations and enforce laws governing the sale and distribution of marijuana in the region.
In addition to shutting down the dispensaries, 17 individuals were arrested during the operation.
These individuals face multiple charges related to their participation in the illicit marijuana commerce. Their identities and locations include the following:
Gregory Black, 54, of Rosamond
Jennifer Lara, 36, of Mojave
Christopher Tusnstall, 27, of Lancaster
Sheri Castellanos, 62, of Bakersfield
Philip Silva, 39, of Lancaster
Tyler Pedigo, 33, of Rosamond
Christopher Clark, 38, of Sylmar
Guadalupe Vieyra, 32, of Little Rock
Christopher Sosa, 39, of Lancaster
Iris Castro, 30, of Lancaster
Jennifer Castro, 26, of Lancaster
Levan Kekelia, 47, of Mojave
Catana Berthiaume, 31, of Lancaster
Michael Epps, 28, of Mojave
Marlon Garnett, 26, of Mojave
Munster Maayah, 25, of Rosamond
Jacob Dewater, 36, of Lancaster
The operation demonstrates the dedication of local law enforcement agencies to combating illicit drug trafficking and preserving public safety.
While some US states have legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use, Kern County’s enforcement actions are consistent with local laws and regulations that may impose restrictions or bans on marijuana-related activities.
This operation serves as a reminder of the complex legal landscape surrounding marijuana in various regions of the United States, where enforcement practices vary according to local ordinances and state statutes.
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