According to a Tuesday, March 7th press release, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office deputies with detectives from the Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team detectives served the search warrant at a former licensed hemp grow, just after 9:00am Thursday morning, March 2nd. in rural Gold Hill.
While searching, detectives discovered 1.8 lbs. of cocaine, $12,000 in cash, approximately 94 lbs. of processed black-market marijuana, and 998 illegal cannabis plants. Detectives also located 10 firearms including an illegal short-barreled rifle and one with obliterated serial numbers. The property is suspected of having connections with a drug trafficking organization. There was no licensing for any type of cannabis growing, handling, or processing at this location.
While serving the warrant, one suspect fled the property and detectives attempted to apprehend by calling in K9 and Drone search teams. The suspect was not located after an extensive search. At this time, there is no reason to believe the suspect is a danger to the public. Detectives detained and released two people on scene and arrested one, Sergio Avila-Perez, 29, from Mexico. He was lodged in the Jackson County Jail on felony charges of unlawful possession and manufacture of marijuana, as well as unlawful possession of prohibited firearms.
Jackson County Code Enforcement responded to the scene to conduct an independent investigation. Code Enforcement issued citations totaling $9,000 for violations including failure to obtain approvals for non-habitable space converted to living quarters, multiple unpermitted electrical installations, unpermitted plumbing installations, unpermitted greenhouse structure, and failure to obtain land use approval for marijuana production.
Investigations are open and ongoing with detectives working additional leads. No further information is currently available for release.
