2 Tons Of Marijuana Discovered East Of Temecula

ANZA, CA — A sheriff's department investigation led to the discovery Wednesday of more than two tons of marijuana just east of Temecula, authorities reported.

Around 7 a.m., the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department along with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife served eight marijuana cultivation-related search warrants at eight separate residences/properties in Anza. The investigation turned up approximately 19,916 marijuana plants and 1,015 pounds of processed marijuana for a total combined weight of over two tons, the sheriff's department said.

The processed pot was collected for evidence. Three firearms — two non-California compliant rifles and one handgun) were also collected, according to the sheriff's department.

The search warrants were served at:

• 38300 block of Alessandro Road, Anza
• Parcel of land near Old Camanche Trail and Bautista Canyon Road, Anza
• 52800 block of Browns Rocky Road, Anza
• Parcel of land near Browns Rocky Road and Woodview Road, Anza
• 51900 block of Browns Rocky Road, Anza
• 39000 block of Indian Road, Anza
• Parcel of land near Indian Road and Springs Trail, Anza
• Parcel of land near Indian Road and Springs Trail, Anza

No one was found at the properties during the search warrant services.

"A follow-up investigation is being conducted to identify the subjects responsible for the illegal marijuana cultivation operations," the sheriff's department reported.

To date, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors has approved only indoor marijuana manufacturing and distribution outlets — not outdoor commercial cannabis grows — in unincorporated communities.

The board has authorized dispensaries and manufacturing facilities in Bermuda Dunes, Green Acres, Lakeland Village, Mead Valley, Temescal Valley and unincorporated area near Corona.