KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - On July 25th, 2022, Klamath County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the 13000 block of Falvey Rd in Merrill on a report of child abuse.
Upon arrival, deputies observed six greenhouses in what was believed to be an unlicensed, illegal, marijuana grow site. While deputies continued to investigate the reported child abuse, detectives were dispatched to investigate the grow.
Deputies confirmed with the Oregon Department of Agriculture, Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission, Oregon Medical Marijuana Program, and the Oregon State Water Master that the location did not possess any permits for legal growing operations.
Detectives supervised the destruction of over 2500 plants.
KCSO estimates 600,000 gallons of water were used illegally in this enterprise.
The property owner, Raul Garcia 61 of Merrill Oregon, was cited and released in lieu of custody for Possession and Manufacturing Marijuana. According to statements made to detectives, this location has been in production since 2018 and is believed responsible for the illegal use of over 5,000,000 gallons of water.
Sheriff Chris Kaber, who was on hand to assist detectives with the destruction of plants, stated: “We have been more aggressive this year in taking down grows and working to hold people accountable for the illegal use of water. At a time when many residents in our county are struggling to get water for basic needs it is reprehensible that people continue to steal this precious resource for an illegal enterprise.”
KCSO was assisted by Klamath County Code Enforcement, Oregon Department of Agriculture, Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission, Oregon Medical Marijuana Program, and the Oregon State Water Master.
The reported child abuse remains under investigation.
