4 Hesperia Residents Busted For Allegedly Running THC Lab In Presence Of Young Children
HESPERIA (CBSLA.com) — Authorities have announced the arrest of four Hesperia residents they say were running a THC extraction lab in the presence of young children.
The lab was located at 19287 Lindsay Street in Hesperia, San Bernardino County Sheriff's said.
The suspects have been identified as Jose Manuel Flores Jr, 25; Steven Martin Segura Jr, 22; Liliana Vazquez, 19, and Fiona Maria Pereira, 18.
Apple Valley Police detectives recently began an investigation into the sales of a substance known as Wax. The substance is a concentrated form of cannabis commonly made by extracting the THC from the marijuana plant. The Sheriff's Marijuana Enforcement Team assisted with the investigation and served a search warrant at the Lindsay Street residence.
Investigators said they found a fully operational THC extraction operation, processed pot, Wax, concentrated cannabis, cash and a handgun. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody around 4:30 p.m. Thursday.
Also present at the location were three minor children -- a two-month-old male and one and five-year-old females.
Authorities want to remind the public that the THC extraction process is extremely dangerous and has a high potential for explosion and fire due to the use flammable chemicals employed during the extraction process. This chemical process is illegal and is a violation of California's Health & Safety Code.
The THC extraction operation was taking place in a detached shed approximately 10 feet from the residence. Children and Family Services was called to the location and removed the children from the home.
All fours suspects were arrested for manufacturing a controlled substance and child endangerment. Officials said additional charges may be sought against Flores and Segura. All four suspects were booked at the High Desert Detention Center and given a bail amount of $500,000.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact the Sheriff's Gangs / Narcotics Division at (909) 890-4840.
